Where are you located?

Coffered ceilings, low corner additions etc.Anyone can slap lipstick on a pig, looking for high value add in high demand markets is where the $ is.

The lease has a clause where if full rent is not paid by the 10th of month, I am allowed to evict as he broke the lease agreement.I am willing to work with him but overall I would like him to move out as I seen major signs of depression and hoarding behavior but I don't want him to turn into a squatter.

If a situation arises where landlord and tenant end up suing each other or both being named in a lawsuit, and we're on the same insurance policy together, that seems to create more problems than it solves.

If you own the balcony (check CCRs, I have a unit where I don't own my private balcony) then it is all part of the unit.As an owner, you're on the hook for the actions of your tenant.

I am not sure what companies are quoting you, but you should shop more.Make sure to have the location of where is showing the cracks so you can get a more accurate repair estimation.I have some contractors that I can recommend.

It would just need to be a situation where they have great contact with the person doing that managing of the project (I.e. have known the person for years, great reputation, person has experience in flipping etc.).

Your VA loan will be crucial to your real estate investing growth, especially since it affords you the potential opportunity to own more than one property, depending on your overall allotment.For active military personnel, that conundrum of where to invest and where you will end up is always part of the issue that sometimes causes analysis paralysis so it's great you have one in VA Beach already.

I would just go on VRBO (or similar) and look how people design their properties where it really matters (they are trying to rent to daily guests and design/amenities are super important.

This is where I would focus, as these are the same attributes that attracted those responsible for the larger projects like the Bellweather District you mentioned in your initial post.With your budget I would recommend NW Philadelphia (Germantown and Mount Airy in particular).