I want to be able to offer several options to sellers, including a quick sale at reduced price to investor connections, listing on the MLS if it doesn't make sense as an investor deal, and recommending anyone they might need (contractors, decorators, cleaners, etc) if they want to improve their property before listing it on the MLS.

I'm have also been involved in other businesses mainly import and distribution of Hamptons Style furniture and decor. 

Like in my Whiskey cabin I did a whiskey theme and added decor and barrels etc.

The deduction depends on the usage and that is determined via tracking mileage.If you put the car on display (not use) in your office or place of business as a decoration, maybe.  

Overlooking these things will result in bad reviews.Most importantly, is the home themed and decorated for the WOW factor?

You need good location, decor, amenities, and customer service.

Just wrapping up my furnishings for a 4-unit (8 bedrooms + 4 living rooms) and was getting ready to pull the trigger on ordering a massive amount of throw pillows for the bedrooms, couches, and side seating when I realized they were probably going to be tossed onto the ground and not used as intended, leading to dirty decorations that my cleaner would have to launder. 

Decorate, furnish, and have amenities you would want and you believe your target market would want.3) ManagementIf you are going to self-manage refer to the first point again.

The other rental option is the same price and decorated the same.

My wife *really* wants to buy our own home since we've been renting for 2 years, settle in our 2 little boys' rooms, decorate, the whole 9 yards.I'm leaning toward investing it first into some possible BRRRRs and/or flips since the market is hot and establishing some more passive income/savings but since it's coming from her dad, she's nervous about investing it in real estate rather than buying our own home now.Should we buy now and take advantage of the low rates and then save to invest later?