Each require county inspections that extend the permit process.

Currently doing 3 renos, having an EDEN inspection today that will pass and closing on two more Friday, again all from OOS. 

This way they can't claim ignorance.I would also require a move out inspection and make it the day after they are supposed to be moved out. 

I've got a duplex built in 1888, and have a couple of cold rooms, upon inspecting the basement, there is no insulation under the floor of these rooms.

However, it’s crucial to track and document all hours worked meticulously to demonstrate material participation if audited.The CPA’s suggestion that your activity would be treated as passive could stem from the involvement of a property manager, as their role could make it appear that you are not the primary manager of the rental.

Market might be competitive but there is angles to stand out depending on what you are comfortable and able to handle, such as waiving an appraisal contingency, limitng inspection rights and time frames, closing time frames, allowing seller to stay-post closing, taking on difficult tenants, buying properties that might need repairs, etc.

I would also make sure the appraiser assigned to inspect the property is familiar with the area.

Look at the PM contract and verify the 8% is all inclusive and that there are not additional charges for placing a tenant, resigning a tenant, inspections, and dealing with vendors/contractors.  

If your tenants aren't looped in early, it could make access for inspections tough.

My go-to response is always: Do you have a Move-In Inspection to document the home's condition beforehand?