Buy the book, record yourself reading it, and then sell those copies.

Steve, Different cities use different MLS software so there isn't an a easy way to get a clear representation of what those records would look like.

The upside to the county sites (sometimes the recorder has useful data, too) is that access is typically free.

I have sent out letters to owners before by researching the tax records, got some responses, but everyone wanted way too much.

If you have a strong relationship with a bank (track record of successful investments) they get more flexible on stuff like this.All my commercial stuff is single tenant buildings, with similar leases (non national tenants) and I get financing at around 65% LTV (I don't own very many commercial buildings).You could also make the purchase contingent on the existing owner getting the tenant to sign a longer lease.

I don't really like the "Get a contractor from Lowes or HD" advice either.

If you own it free and clear, it will not hurt you in getting a loan on another property, it will just not help you by providing additional income.Start keeping excellent records now...you are going to need them later.

They have a track record of results and understand the renovation process that is likely to occur, thus having a better eye for the final product.Of course it all depends on the skillset of the person.

@Jonathan MednickThanks for your post.Impressive record.

But everything is in the FC court records.