My opinion I don’t believe it will add value, $$$ might be better spend on improving bathroom or kitchen and that will add value..Just my .002

The following items were checked: Subterranean Termites, Fungus / Dryrot in siding, roof sheathing, Water stains noted at Master bedroom closet, The Subarea below the bedrooms is inaccessible for inspection due to Dirt covering access, Evidence of Subterranean Termites was noted at/in Subarea which appears to extend into inaccessible areas (garage). 

You'd likely need access to both sides and you'll spend close to $1000 getting both done.

So the new Harris County rules say that any rehab project in the 100 year flood plain needs to elevate the house unless the rehab budget is less than 50,% of the building/improvement value of the home.

However, for the time being I would like some suggestions as to where I should place my money for the sake of tax burden being self employed and having access to the money.

However, for the time being I would like some suggestions as to where I should place my money for the sake of tax burden being self employed and having access to the money.

Hopefully, a local Agent would possibly have access to the necessary forms that may relieve you the cost of a Lawyer.  

There are so many benefits as an investor to having access to MLS, comps, seeing any property any time I want, negotiating with listing agents myself, etc.

Do you have access to private money by any chance?

That is especially true with the tax law change that went into effect this year; the standard deduction nearly doubled, so the taxes you save by itemizing might be much less than they were in the past (in other words, because you are getting a larger benefit through the larger standard deduction the "cost" of not having the mortgage interest deduction might be less).I can see an argument for there being better uses for your money than to pay off a mortgage with a 5.5% interest rate (if you can make an investment that pays at least 6% for example), but if your quality of life will improve because you paid off your debt and are now "financially independent" then that is what you should do.