Install some cameras and motion lights to the front.

-Hardware for cabinets, doors, misc- LVP flooring-Lighting and fixturesanything helps!

The water heater is turned off (no light on the dial - used to be green) and there's no hot water in the unit.

Think, I have FULL WEIGHT of liability on my shoulders for ANYTHING my agent's do.

It's true you get a tax deduction for your mortgage, but you also pay taxes on whatever else you decide to do with that money.I would list all of your known investment opportunities, what you think the after tax returns would be, and a risk level 1-5.If paying the mortgage is a clear standout on that list on a risk/reward basis, I would spread out the $60k over a period of time and apply it to principal.You might have other goals like cashflow or reducing risk which might weight towards paydown also.

I’m often asked by new investor hopefuls how to get started in real estate when cash is light.

. $400 for a 2-day rental of an 11-yard dumpster might seem high, but it’s important to consider what’s included (delivery, pickup, disposal fees) and whether there are any weight limits.Alternative Options:Bagster Bags: These are large, disposable bags that you fill with debris and arrange for pickup.Junk Removal Services: Some companies specialize in hauling away specific types of debris.

Because in reality, by not hiring a property manager, and committing to doing the easier things myself--like unclogging a toilet / shower drain, fixing a light bulb, pest control, calling a plumber--I am committing to be on standby for many hours, which is a sacrifice of peace of mind / being able to leave town or take vacations--and I would like to know if it's worth it. 

would have to get a quote from an excavation company . depends on what the materials are for weight 

I believe where I am located it's around $30/sq ft, so if property is sound in general but needs just light renovation.