Sounds like from everyone here that a strong vetting of your contractors is an ever more important part given how much the project depends on them and the rehab costs/time.

I own a duplex in Clermont, FL just outside of Orlando and initially wanted to split water meters between the two units, but the cost and amount of work were higher than expected.

At this time I manage and renovate majority of all my units to keep cost low but most likely not the best use of my time although I'm skilled at it.

You have $70k in equity tied up, earning a low return relative to its potential.

If you need some connections, I run the most active group of small landlords in the city and have a network of connections that you could potentially leverage.

I do not think it would cost too much to tone it down howeverI got a $10k quote (minus fees) from an interior decorator recently to redesign.

Yes we avoid custom work to help keep cost down. 

All too typical park owner who took all the profit out of the park without reinvesting in the business then wants to sell you the potential he was too cheap to invest in. 

It did not cost me $0.01.  

I am bullish on the FHA 203k and home-style renovation loans that allow you to leverage the cost of your renovation as part of your mortgage, which is just an insane deal, in my opinion.Do you have a specific area where you want to purchase?