Older homes, while charming and full of character, come with knob & tube electrical, crumbling main sewer lines, garages that need attention, etc...

They’re also cheaper to buy, easier to fix plumbing and electrical on, and loaded with character.

There is water and electricity at the road, and putting in a road is the first step.

I've got a few properties that would really benefit from updated heating/cooling systems. 1 duplex I have has electric baseboard heat / window AC (Old 1880s property, no crawlspace or basement, no existing ductwork), another I'd like to add central air too, and a 3rd that has old gas wall furnaces / window AC that I would replace with mini splits (again no ductwork). 

Basic, but functional faucet.Appliances ($3,500):Focus on essential replacements.Refrigerator: Energy-efficient model.Range: Standard electric or gas range.Dishwasher: Basic model.Consider deals, scratch-and-dent appliances.Lighting ($1,000):Recessed lighting in the ceiling.Under-cabinet lighting.Basic pendant lights over the island.Paint & Trim ($500):DIY painting.New baseboard.2.

Always budget for: roof/fascia/gutters, sewer laterals (get a camera scope every time), foundation/water intrusion, electrical panels, and aging HVAC.

  $980 per month for a 5 bed seems very low and like you will be losing alot of money ounce you add in electricity, water, sewer, internet and your taxes and insurance and debt service. 

Have a friend neighbor co-worker relative sign a lease for $1 and get electricity in their name?

It doesn’t.Here’s what SC law says you must do—no matter what the lease says:Keep the unit safe, clean, and livable.Maintain HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliances—unless the lease clearly shifts that burden.Provide heat, hot water, and running water (again, unless legally excluded).Maintain common areas in buildings with 4+ units.Want to access the unit?

Focus on Health & Safety First • Electrical hazards, roof leaks, HVAC issues, or plumbing concerns carry more weight than cosmetic items.