Trouble is, we need to get in to install a mini split A/C unit in the loft and the lawnmower (I mow the grass) is in the garage.  

Also what brand di you have installed?

No depreciation, no 1031s, no installment sales.

Use low maintenance materials as me tinned above.Have qualified installers who don't cut corners.Buy materials with long warranties as this usually signifies higher quality products.

I'm not sure what area you are looking at but purchasing a lot here in colorado for example you'll have the costs of drilling a well, installing a septic system, running power to your lot, installing a driveway, etc, etc.

@Bjorn Ahlblad - i contacted the insurance company and ask how i could get my rates, one building was knob and tube wiring, I installed 3 x 200 amp SquareD panels my self.

They'll make sure all the windows work, and that the smoke alarms are installed correctly, that any stairway with more than 2 steps has a railing, etc. 

You can consider installing individual boilers for each block.

Some of our clients have even installed two separate electric meters on the property, which would require two separate addresses.

- Since a portion of the house will be a STR, can I bonus depreciate the solar panel installation?