In an overheated real estate market, many would-be homebuyers and real estate investors are looking for ways to capitalize on market opportunities and become part of the real estate boom. One of the most cost-effective ways to join the game is to investigate fixer-upper properties. Long-time real estate guru Robert Irwin acknowledges that such properties are not for everyone. For those willing to accept the challenges, however, buying and fixing up less-than-prime properties can be one of the most lucrative opportunities available. With new insights on getting access to financing and estimating fix-up costs, Irwin also shows buyers how to use the resources of the Internet to locate fixer-upper properties. This is a one-stop guide for anyone considering the possibility of buying or investing in houses, apartments, and commercial properties that need work. Money-making and money-saving advice includes: *where to find the best fixer-uppers *inspecting the properties to avoid "money pits" *identifying ugly duckling properties needing only quick cosmetic fixes *teaming up with top experts to make deals happen quickly and easily *making low-ball offers that sellers will accept *structuring deals to achieve win-win outcomes