Yes you can buy stuff over the counter however as said most of it will be junk.

If not, you’ll need to resolve these liens, which could complicate the investment.Current Occupants: The family living in the property could be protected under Massachusetts’ tenant and housing laws.

Purchase price: $275,000 Cash invested: $275,000About this homeBeautiful 2 bedrooms 1 bathroom condo in the convenient location of Rowland Heights, close to bus stop, supermarket, schools, shopping centers etc. newer counter top in kitchen and bathroom. 2 parking spaces and storage room.

Can you arrange for counters, floors, painting other “basics” without him tacking on his 20%?

The area is a rougher area (low-income, Class 3 city about 40 min outside downtown Pittsburgh, many drugs in the area, etc.) - but the other units have great tenants who take care of the place, are quiet, etc.

Every adult should be fully screened to ensure you aren't renting to a violent criminal, drug dealer, etc.

That’s fine but how big is the gain?

I'd venture to guess your tenant is a criminal or drug addict of some sort.There's some truth in your thought but he's actually a really nice hard working young man. 

We purchased it off market, as-is, and as it was our personal home, we renovated over time.

On the surface, the deal seems appealing, but there's a catch: the asking price is $475,000, which is about 18% over the market value (based on comps and DealCheck estimates around $402,000).Details of the DealProperty: Duplex, 2,400 sq. ft., Purchase Price: $475,000 ($197.9/sq. ft.).Estimated Market Value: $402,000 ($168/sq. ft.).Financing Terms: 2% interest rate, with a 9-year balloon.Unit B Income: $2,049/month (Section 8 tenant through November 2025).Unit A Income Potential: Similar rent or higher; Section 8 cap for the area is $3,234/month.Monthly Loan Payment (P+I): $1,386.Cash Flow Breakdown (if both units are rented at $2,049/month):Gross Rent: $4,098/month.Vacancy (10%): $410/month.Operating Expenses (37.3%): $1,376/month.Net Cash Flow: $943/month.Key QuestionsWould you be comfortable paying an 18% premium for financing at 2%, especially in a market where current mortgage rates are closer to 7%?