If the repairs are capital improvements (e.g., replacing entire siding), you’ll need to capitalize and depreciate those over time.The unpaid rent is considered a loss, but it’s not directly deductible.

I will say I have found the most helpful information with every step of the process when assigning contracts comes from Real Estate Skills which you can find on YouTube.

You would determine an amount to set aside for repairs, improvements and vacancy beforehand.  

Are there things it doesn’t do well, or improvements you think could be made?

You may be surprised how quickly the MLS value can improve with improved curb appeal alone as well, so consider the landscaping if you want a quicker way out of the property. 

Here are a few thoughts I have:Market Research: I’m willing to dedicate time to researching potential properties and analyzing market trends to help identify lucrative deals.Networking: I aim to build relationships within the local real estate community, which could open doors to new opportunities for us all.Project Management: My military experience has equipped me with strong organizational and logistical skills that could help streamline processes and improve communication.I would love to hear from seasoned investors about their thoughts on partnering with someone who may not have a financial contribution upfront.

We're looking to renovate something before the end of the year to accomplish 2 things: 1) Improve home value so we can get appraisal, refinance and leverage that to buy a new property. 2) Take advantage of the tax credits that are out there in 2024 before the new year or is it better to wait until 2025 and just hold onto the cash I have at hand.Here is a list of renovations that will need to be done eventually:*Brand new basement kitchen (cabinets + add seating area - we already have brand new dishwasher, fridge, gas oven)*New standing shower in the basement bathroom*New Siding*AC/Furnace for unit 1 are close to end of life but still functioning*New Fence/landscaping*New Windows for the basement*New Garage (unstable, concrete shifting, very old)*Solar Panels on the roof (There is a $0 down payment lease option w/ sunrun, but I'm hesitant to move forward)*Renovate master bedroom closet for tenants (it is old & has built in entertainment center that is very dated)*Repair Catch basin*Adding better drainage system for back door.Greatly appreciate any help, insight or advice!

Knocking out improvements over the holidays, and selling beginning of the year when interest rates drop and home prices increase due to demand.

I'm hoping that my finances are much better at this time next year and continue to improve as the economy gets cleaned up, with the right person at the helm. 

Would it make sense to invest in improving my home, then refinance with a bank to extract the created equity, and then use that money to purchase a rental property?