That's not the same as paying cash.According to a different post, your credit card debt costs you $600/month.

Focus on key areas first (like floors, walls, kitchen, or bathroom), which may help you handle the costs more gradually, even if it means moving in furniture or updating fixtures down the line.Also, since the tenant left it in rough shape, be sure to document all the damage (photos, receipts) in case you decide to pursue reimbursement through their security deposit or in court.

.✅ This avoids wasting time screening unqualified tenants.3) Before Lease Signing (Final Step)✅ Run the background check before approving the tenant, so you can verify:Credit history & income stability Eviction & rental historyCriminal background (if applicable in your state)Final ThoughtThe best time is after the showing but before lease approval—this ensures you’re only screening serious applicants while minimizing wasted time and costs.

Way better returns on the cost seg than you'd ever cash flow from an LTR. 

Even if they don't realize how much money you're costing them now, someone will tell them eventually and I don't think your canned wholesaling response is going to do much to repair the damage. 

However, the property’s cost basis (what they originally paid) carries over to you, meaning if you later sell, you may owe significant capital gains tax on appreciation.Alternatively, selling the property at fair market value eliminates gift tax concerns, but your in-laws may owe capital gains tax on any profit.

Aloha Joshua,  I deal with clouded/messy titles often and it's not my first choice as its froth with a lot of time, costs and risks. 

I decided to buy the property from my grandfather using a gift of equity, which allowed me to take over ownership without having to come up with the full down payment and pay for the tax lien and his closing costs.

@Ben Syzek with $50k, you're probably looking at a property with a total cost (purchase price + reno) around $250k.

I can also share some great resources and guides to get you started.Let me know what specifically you're looking to learn, and we can set up a time to talk.