She ended up picking out material that was over the top and we could have saved some money.

.), utilities, TV/internet, landscaping maintenance, marketing, credit card fees, lodging taxes, etc.

Although AB-968 doesn’t specifically mention “licensed” contractors, the state of California already stipulates that “anyone who contracts to perform work that is valued at $500 or more in combined labor and materials costs must hold a current, valid license from CSLB” (source: CSLB).With AB-968, if work is performed by an (un)licensed contractor in an amount that exceeds $500, disclosing that entity’s or individual’s name and contact information becomes a legal requirement.

The material costs for painting a wood floor will be under $100.

So we need to eliminate these incorrect facts from being used to back your opinions.Now, I just know you're going to run off and write some long winded response that argues some arcane and totally irrelevant points using materially incorrect data.  

Sadly you would need to either have a spouse qualify for REPS (you cannot due to w2) or either make under 100k per year so you can deduct up to 25k of losses per year and actively participate(this is different then material participation). 

I’m just a novice on the internet, reach out to a couple pros BEFORE you sell.

Do an internet search for Paul Gulbronson with the words criminal, scam, fraud and you'll find very interesting info. 

Be patient, kind, respectful & supportive of that man, that love of your life = HE is more important than money and material things.  

Phil -There are various published online material(s) which can serve as guidance.