Duplex tenants would be responsible for landscaping whereas the fourplex will require you to mow the lawn or clean the stairwell and common areas.I would probably take the duplex just because it would attract families with a little more money and probably have fewer complaints of noisy neighbors, parking, etc.

Exterior paint, landscaping, replaced roof, several new appliances, interior paint, fence installation/repair.

Hello Cheryl,  I am new to New Orleans and learning the investing landscape here.

I am joining the forums to learn more about real estate investing as well as networking for my landscaping business.

Of course a year from now the landscape could be entirely different so it is key to keep your powder dry and options open till then.There are a couple of twists to a 1031 that may allow you to still benefit from one and yet re-position your money to your benefit as well.1. 1031 into an alternative real estate investment.  

Definitely a fixer upper, like $25/foot for interior, exterior, landscaping, asphalt improvement.

Here is what we are doing...Re key home to make new tenant keysClean up and shape the landscaping and trim tree in rear of homeRepair exterior wood - Repaint all exterior siding and trim.Repair gate / fence leading into backyardReplace all kitchen cabinets with new cabinets - Paint white, then antiqueNew st steel stove, dishwasher, and vent a hoodNew countertops (kitchen)New wood laminate flooring in 2 living areas and hallway - 1st floorNew tile floor in downstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in downstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surroundNew brushed nickel light fixtures and fans throughout the homeNew carpet and pad on stairs and upstairs hall and bedroomsNew tile floor in upstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in upstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surround upstairs bathReplace old / damaged sheetrock where needed (mostly downstairs)Repaint all ceilings throughout homeRepaint all doors and trim throughout the homeRemove all wallpaper and paint all walls standard neutral colorsReplace all interior and exterior doorknobs and looks to new brushed nickel look to match lights and fansReplace all cabinet pulls and knobs with brushed nickel to match door knobs and lights/fansLicenced plumber to repair and service all plumbing fixtures / pipes to ensure no leaksLicensed HVAC technician coming to service and clean the heat and air to ensure it is working property."

Hello I am a Alex i own a Landscape Company in Cincinnati looking to get more into real estate i have been around real estate a very very long time.

In the past I was using acompany to do the snow removal and landscaping services.  

The deferred maintenance arent major items but they need to be taken care of....landscaping, replace some sod, paint the exterior, minor drywall repairs, replace a shower door...overall the house is solid.