If you are in this business long enough you will undoubtedly arrive at situations where taking the small loss even if not fair or warranted based on the circumstances is best if it keeps everything moving and avoids more costly delays, liability and inconveniences.In this case, if you withhold the $2K, you still have to find someone to complete the work to your satisfaction.

Should I re evaluate what strategy I should use and maybe look further out in places such as Rochester and BRRR properties out thereHey @Jared Leggett, I know I'm jumping in here late in the game, and I have to admit that I haven't read all the many comments you've gotten, but I wanted to provide what I imagine and glean is a contrary view.It is easy to dunk on NYC for young investors starting out, but if you are a first time homebuyer you can buy a $1M property with $35k down (+ closing costs which can be avoided with seller's concessions).

Consulting a CPA is a must to navigate these nuances.Double-check these details with your lender and CPA to avoid surprises and keep scaling smoothly.

They deals he says to go after are the ones the real experts say to avoid.

Looking for permanent structure over being on wheels to avoid RV parking issues with the city and for the property value add with the permanent structure.

I understand this isn’t a huge deal, but in all that I’ve done I’ve avoided issues like this. 

I've never heard the 25% thing before, but any difference between FMV and sales price would technically be considered a "gift" with potential tax implications for your parents.You can avoid most seller costs as there's no reason to use agents in this case.As an FYI: I always recommend avoiding a FHA loan, if you qualify for a low-down payment conventional loan.

I personally would avoid the older neighborhoods closer to the post.

Mainly I’m trying to avoid “aged poorly design” glassblock walls, small bedrooms, older windows (wood/aluminum, single pane), aluminum patio covers, and to a lesser extent landscaping.

Once the lease is signed, I go to the bank and open a new security deposit account, and then the bank provides account number, which I then manually enter in the lease and have the tenant sign the lease again.Any guidance on avoiding the hassel of having to sing the lease twice lease?