But in Smarter Contact, even though it's not required (if you're in the Elite or Enterprise Plans), they're strongly suggesting it and even have a report on "carrier block rate" percentage.

If you do it right, it’s arguably the best market to invest.Purchase: $80k-$130kRent: $1100-$1500 (no rent control in MI)1% rule: .9%-1.4% rule dealsCoc ROI: 5-12%Total ROI: 20-40%Cash flow: $50-$250/door (after all expenses and budgeting for maint, capex, vacancy)Appreciation: 3-10%+ (has been double digit for a decade)Location: C+, B-These numbers are based on the “sweet spot” in Metro Detroit.

But any improvements are at your risk.. the redeeming party just owes you your cash plus in our state 9% and any VERIFIABLE expenses you paid to protect the asset.

It would cost a lot to get the planning approval and do a complete renovation of the 2 units.Can anyone suggest what would be my options at this point?

I would plan to long-term rent the property from day one and would never reside in the property before renting.  

I use my license for multiple activities: Of course- comps, when buying and when selling, tax data- to see what I am about to pay when i own the home ( for long term holdings), check the DOM (days on the market) for the subdivision I am either buying on, or when I plan on selling, etc. 

I’m planning to cancel my membership and get refunded.

oh, and since we are in Western Washington state, it is very expensive and tenant friendly.

Sounds like a great plan. 

Lots of depreciation you will pay no tax maybe even shield some W2 income.B.  8k maybe 10k if you pick the right guy to lend your money to in interest income you will be paying much higher tax rate on this income FYI no depreciation expense.