@Brandon Croucier is giving you solid info on finding an experienced and honest mortgage broker who can shop your exact scenario both ways, with the rehab and without and break down the benefits of each with all fees so you can see an apples to apples comparison. 

I did not evict them but gave them the opportunity to break the lease and we would just go our separate ways.

I'm more concerned about appreciation and equity so I'm willing to trade the cash flow for it, but I don't want to be in a situation where I'm barely breaking even and the stress that comes with it.Looking for ideas how I can tap into that equity to grow my portfolio but still getting some kind of cash flow to be able to make the monthly payments1.

@Lina TruongStarting with mid-term rentals (MTRs) can feel daunting, but breaking it into steps makes it manageable.

Right now, I’m focused on breaking into multifamily properties and building connections with investors who share the same drive.

With winter break the town turns into a ghost town and not a lot going on here until March, or so.  

You can break it out by general RE activities and material participation.

You can get a decent quality tub without breaking the bank and if you  layout the bathroom where the tub faucet is in the wall you can save some money because floor mounted tub fillers and their rough in are are expensive.

I would avoid that "guru" - a good property manager can make or break your investing career and I can definitely assure you that you're not finding a great PM using thumbtack!

Take the time to break down what needs to be repaired and what upgrades you will be doing.