I don’t know how to analyze my numbers to make a decision and I’m not sure my assumptions are accurate. .

Congrats on making the decision to begin your real estate investing journey! 

There wasn't a firm decision that he made at that point in time, hence things were undecided and unsettled. and not at any point in time, Tenant sent a written letter of move out intent/notice until recently, mid-August '24, when I got the first written "move out notice" from him via "email" that he ll vacate the house on Sept 01 and that the payment will be left on the counter.

Be cautious, those inflated numbers are often used to sell courses.It's smart to base decisions on your market research.

I suspect mine added less than $50k because it took space from other use, but it added enough to be an easy decision to add. 

Just trying to educate myself so that I make the best decisions for me.

Yet courts do it regularly, and their decisions often reference intentions, as interpreted by the judge.From this angle, it is useful to guess an intention of a particular tax law before trying to use it to your advantage.

That was the best decision we ever made.

I chose Columbus, OH due to the lower entry costs, cashflow and appreciation and have been pretty happy with my decision so far. 

In our area there are business administrator (assistants to the mayor) who have more decision making power than others, but the head of the water/sewer or public works department may be able to help you too.