If you want to negotiate prior to contract, most builders are going to do everything in their power to avoid dropping the price...this could mean paying closing costs, pre-paying HOA dues, buying down your rate, giving options/upgrades at no cost, etc...basically anything that is going to allow them to keep the recorded price elevated.Even in down markets we are still trying to show price INCREASES phase over phase, even if that means giving away more in concessions on a case-by-case basis to get deals done.

Insurance probably sent an inspector who gave a ballpark repair cost in addition to the cost estimate the clean up company provided.I'm assuming you used the clean up mitigation company the insurance suggested, who may not be your best choice.Get another estimate to return the property to full glory, cost for paint, glue, dumpsters, every nitty gritty drywall screw, plus putting your tenant in like kind housing.

There’s a lot that goes into solar and power storage unless you just want to sell your leftovers to the electric company.  

For more powerful financial software you can utilize Quickbooks, with much the same inputs but much more flexibility and greater detailing.  

Both seasoned and new real estate investors have a powerful tool: the 1031 tax-deferred exchange.

I think a ReafCo filter would clean up half of the issues.

I have 3 bedroom 2 bath residential home in a nice area on a nice block which all the neighbors have well kept up and clean homes.

Renting by the room can be a powerful strategy. 

I can say she left the place clean other than she violated the lease terms by smoking in it and busted a hole in the air return box.  

However, with the market being saturated, there might be opportunities to negotiate better deals on properties that could be suitable for long-term rentals, which typically offer more consistent cash flow throughout the year.As for seller financing, its a powerful tool, especially if you are looking to keep your personal finances separate.