Purchase price: $630,000 Cash invested: $120,000 Completely gutted this property, brand new electrical, furnace, propane, finished basement to create separate unit.New garage with rental unit.

Sometimes I had to beg for extensions because I couldn't finish tasks on time.

As long as I finish up at the W2 in time to make the trip (usually not a problem), I'll be there.

I envision this portfolio supporting me during my retirement years—though I still plan to work, just in a different capacity than I do today.I recently finished reading "How to Invest in Real Estate: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide" by Josh Dorkin and Brandon Turner, which has been incredibly helpful.

With no movement towards finish line for years.

Basically, it was a 1980s block shell with a 2024 home inside, when we were finished.

The DIYers are welcome, but these kind of deals take a solid 150-200 hrs for the average first timer from start to finish and a minimum cash position of $175k (if you DIY the design/furnishing; more if you want to be hands off).  

If you give contractors a prize for finishing early on time, they will finish then to get the prize, but there is plenty that can be left undone without you knowing that will harm you later.

An extremely detailed scope of work along with an extremely detailed contract, are the keys to a project that is going to finish on schedule and on budget, without surprises. 

I'm planning to finish all of these this month.