I'd love to share a graded map of Cleveland which would help you gain a better understanding of the different areas and price points of each grade. 

It'll take some explaining for those not familiar with Access, but it's pretty dang cool. 

The last thing you want to do is spend the money for a conversion and then get shut down by the neighbors or city.Is there another way to access these bedrooms other than the garage?

In retrospect I would have spelled out the construction process more clearly in writing ahead of time.In your case the existing tenant is getting no new value so there is nothing for them to gain with this project.

Since you're not pursuing a real estate license, consider wholesaling to gain deal experience or help manage local properties to learn the day-to-day operations.

Passive losses can only offset passive income or gain on sale from a passive activity.

You will likely need access to six-figure cash or loan to execute your plan before your long-term financing.Can you piggy back on the seller's bigger project?

But, since you only lived in it for a year, you will have to pay capital gains. 

Now that I am retired, I am eager to: 1) Gain hands-on experience in flipping homes in Florida, 2) Find properties with potential for value-add/forced appreciation, 3) Partner with experienced home flippers for collaborative projects.

Access to this information varies among the county, but you can begin by Google searching your local area’s public records.