I've been updating things that need it and lucky enough, I can do the work myself to keep cost down for now, only because it be my first rental.any advise would be much appreciated. 

AI costs $.02 per property analyzed - so narrowing down in step 2 is there to keep the cost low and the list targeted.

But if you are just buying a home that you will keep as is...that's something that just about all of us do pretty easily.Feel free to reach out directly if you want to talk it through some. 

How do you evaluate if a property is ideal for flipping or if you should keep it as a rental?

As for valuing the property, keep in mind that the properties are valued based on NOI, just like any business. 

Otherwise like Nicholas said, you're paying some unnecessary costs and will likely need to keep more equity in the property with a refinance than what you would've buying it with financing right off the bat. 

I think the big question is how badly do you want to keep the extra $50k liquid?

@Jeffrey Mair I would keep your rentals forever, especially that they are cash flowing. 

It keeps things professional while giving you room to grow your expertise.I admire your perspective on keeping your parents’ resources separate from your own—it’s smart to want to succeed on your own terms.

Plus, the population growth and job market around Tampa keep driving rental stability, making it a solid choice for both cash flow and long-term equity.