Eventually I would like to specialize in exterior/interior painting, or framing. 

If we need to leave paneling we usually hit it with a coat of bonding primer and paint it. 

Some contractors can remodel a kitchen and put in flooring/paint, and some can build ground up.

Simple as in new paint, appliance replacement, light fixture replacement, and sheetrock (due to repipe of old Kitec).

If you are working with someone who will only paint the positives, and no negatives or risks, then tread lightly. 

I know there there is no signs of lead based paint in the apartment but I did not give them the pamphlet “how to protect your family from lead based paint”.

Then, look at any updates that might bring in MORE or HIGHER rents, such as kitchen, baths, fresh paint, clean floors (carpet or hard surfaces), ceiling fans, window AC units, etc.

The rehabbing of the property was a bit over 33k which included a new HVAC System, Floors throughout the house, new bathrooms vanities, kitchen countertops paint and a lot of sheetrock work and trash removal.

The rehabbing of the property was a bit over 33k which included a new HVAC System, Floors throughout the house, new bathrooms vanities, kitchen countertops paint and a lot of sheetrock work and trash removal.

Renting a house is like painting a car or house - 90% of the work is in the prep work.