We've found it has superior reporting features, integration features, and is overall more efficient to work within than other REI-specific software.The downside is QBO is not set up for REI so you'll need to do that or work with an expert to ensure it is set up for your business appropriately.

Sometimes I think, well maybe that newby is an expert at draining swamps....or they have a helicopter to reach the landlocked property and want to practice aerial concrete and building material transport.There was a guy on here the other day, challenging me that he could not possibly go look at all the "deals" he was going to buy in Florida for 10c on the $1. 

We exclusively travel during non-peak seasons, so we would be looking to rent out completely during busy/peak seasons, and would stay at the place during slow seasonsQuestions for the experts out there:1. which development(s) tends to be the best for ROI/have the best occupancy rates?

Besides that, just wanted to chime in real quick - I'd highly check in with a CPA and I am no tax expert, so wanted to preference that.

How could I best secure financing for the renos to get each unit up and income producing?

It probably would have cost me about $10k more, but I would have still been able to secure the property.

Nothing you mention is "ordinary" and you should charge for all of it. dodged a bullet there thats a very good price take it from the security deposit and call yourself lucky. 

It does sound to me that a lot of that work should have come out of the tenants security deposit 

We have been fortunate to rarely hold any security funds from former tenants.

And I struggle through the expert interviews.