It's a 1961 concrete block house.  

Marc I agree,I honestly think I may just board it up pretty well and not give the tenants access to the attic.

Collins and Colorado Springs into a solid block is there.

My second question is, 2) would it be possible for me to try to approach the bank before foreclosure if he is not giving me access to the bank (I do know which bank he is working with)?

If the above answer is to use it investing in real estate, what is the best way to go about accessing this money for investing purposes?

I actually am about to close on my very own duplex that I got for a great deal just a few blocks away from my Brother's duplex in a week or so!!

We are under contract for 7 blocks of quadruplexes.28 units Contract sales price=$1,575,000Appraised value=$1,700,000 (real appraisal done 01/16)NOI=$156,000Average cap for area =7%current average rents per unit $650Comparable rents=$750/unitThis is a value play rather than for immediate cash flow which is not particularly impressive as COC return is in the 3% range per bigger pockets rental calculator.What do you think?

I had spent time with the neighbors, joined the block club, and gave EVERYONE my number but no one bothered to call when they saw guys hauling my stuff away.

But the past couple of years whenever I go in to access repairs, I've noticed they are not clean people.

For rental condition, make sure everything is clean and functional (and safe) and has amenities similar to those in your area and price range.... no need to make it look like HGTV after shots...Some of these items you list sound cosmetic and it may fair well in your rental market as is or with just some minor fixes (again, I would look at similar units for rent (not sale) in the area to get an idea if formica and older carpet is the norm in your area and price range...)And I would simply look at temporarily blocking off or restricting the fireplace use, clean the carpet, tack on the molding.