@Sam BoothTrim trees (don't cut down), flowers or plants along walk way, paint door, river rock or some stone where bushes are, Dark mulch around tree, plant grass, drink a beer and call it a day.That said, I have no idea about the ARV in the neighborhood so that could be too much work...or too little.

This would be your first stepping stone property.

Also, how do I think long term and consider using this as a stepping stone to buying similar properties in the future?

Unless you are out $25,000 - $50,000, there is no spread in the time it would take for an attorney to try to get blood from a stone, a broke stone.You should be speaking with the realtor who recommended the contractor as it was their recommendation that put you in this situation.

putting down 75% ain't bad, but if you're dead set on investing in your backyard, oftentimes it's just not an area that cashflows. if cashflow is more important to you than having your rentals be a stone's throw away, consider another market.

It's great to hear you're considering an investment property in Tampa as a stepping stone to eventually relocating there.

You will have to do a little more research, dig a little deeper and turn a few more stones.

If it is stone/rock I would not.

@Michael Dumler Thank you for your insights man, I got a few books to finish ASAP, once I am done I will execute your provided lists literally.Currently I am in Stone mountain, lakewater block.

I need to get a house on Bacon St. one day😉