This ensures you lock in better terms based on the improved cash flow.

You might want to get in touch with @Andrew Freed and Jonathan Bombaci, they are locked into several of the MA meetups which are great ways to connect with other investors in real life.

If you can find that deal, pull that trigger.

Running numbers, networking, and talking to local investors will boost your confidence when it’s time to pull the trigger.

Set the thermostat at 55 and lock it. $15 fix.Thermostat Lock

As long as you own it you will not trigger any tax. 

Usually this triggers eviction.

With regard to renovations, I always suggest taking incremental steps to bigger renovations or partnering with someone who has already done a renovation at that level.I've been known to just go for the big rehabs for my personal investments here in Chicago , and during that process, it's always more stressful than it needs to be...As far as navigating the competition, I've found the best thing I can do is get EXTREMELY CLEAR  on what I am looking for; then I am confident pulling the trigger quicky. 

With a pre tax employer account, your money will be locked in and mostly unavailable for future use.  

If you are new to the business the most common issue is you're either locking up deals too high or you aren't finding attractive deals.