I would make the stairwell heated as that will enhance the structure as well as count towards the overall square footage.

Getting a CAGR of 7% on the underlying property itself would seem to require an asset that was bought well below market and / or something that was fixed up and enhanced with ancillary services.

Depends on the politics of the HOA, how diligent they are and if the municipality is short of funds and looking for violations like these to "teach a lesson" and enhance their revenues at the same time.I bought a duplex at a foreclosure auction where the owner built an illegal unit in the basement.

On the other hand, I totally agree with your notion that the extra $200 would serve as a good investment and enhance your experience as a first time investor.

- - -My smartest addition is going to be a streamlined and controlled offer sheet for the seller that is really just an enhanced LOI.

A lot of older multi families that are good enough to rent in Baltimore are on radiator heat and even if they arent or you keep that to enhance rents and get better tenants installing washer dryers if its not done as well as kitchen or bathroom reno will run you out of money quick.  

You do not need any personnel to wholesale, however it would enhance your success in generating leads and closing deals.

One good thing about a JV deal is you market your deals to your buyer and have somebody else market it too enhances your chances of moving the deal, thus making money..I see many scared to jv would rather have deals sit forever and make nothing or keep dropping the price etc.

Looking for an overview of the product, if anyone has used it and got any good leads from it and just in general a discussion about using Zillow to enhance RE Biz 

The gains, tax advantages, etc. that can compound with an investment property are enhanced the sooner you start.