I'd think long and hard about what I emailed, it won't get lost, the dog won't eat it, it won't go through the wash or meet any natural demise, it hangs out there forever.

To be statistically 'safe' from a vacancy, natural disaster or other risk profiles, you need a whole lot more in differing geographical locations.Most people don't really need that safety because they don't often face the risks they fear and if you self-mange you can control your risks in better ways.Is 20 properties the right number for you?

If it appears to be abandoned, go ahead with the make ready.

I think there has always been an element of both nature and nurture in my longing to be competent enough to accomplish that for myself.

It appears the current owner is motivated to sell if he is dropping the price and willing to finance.  

My main interest would be in North County 3/2 SFRs but am open to other types and other areas.I've researched the market online and naturally prefer someone from the BP network to contact rather than contacting a real estate agent/broker blindly.Would be glad to get your insights/recommendations/referrals/contacts.

At prices of $200/sq. foot in my area for these small homes (new construction nears $300/sq. foot) I can’t help but wonder how $40,000 of value appeared out of thin air ($200/foot X 200 feet).

If a property appears neglected or vacant as @Ned Carey predicted, I check an online tax lien site, the auditors' site to estimate how much equity they may have, the scheduled sheriff sales site where the plaintiff is a clue to which are probably tax lien sales, and the Clerk of Courts which shows other foreclosure actions, judgments, etc.

Loan Date 4/1/2009 4/1/2013 2/1/2014 Loan Amount $ 240,000.00 $ 240,000.00 $ 225,000.00 Interest Rate 5% 4% 4.375% Prin + Int $ 1,288.00 $ 1,146.00 $ 1,123.00 PMI $ 103.00 $ 103.00 $ - Total $ 1,391.00 $ 1,249.00 $ 1,123.00 Yearly Total $ 16,692.00 $ 14,988.00 $ 13,476.00 Total Payments $ 500,760.00 $ 449,640.00 $ 404,280.00 Payoff Date 4/1/2039 4/1/2043 2/1/2044 In looking at the numbers, it does appear that paying a slightly higher interest rate has the potential to save money to the tune of $1512/year.  

Hi Tyler, SLC does appear to be a unique market to invest in.