This is a very middle class neighborhood, some houses are well kept up and some haven't been remodeled since construction 20-25 years ago.

You may wanna consider starting a "Member Blog" about your remodeling process - http://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs - as I think case studies and real life stories are so great for learning from.

The contract was made official and filed with the county in February 2013.Now I would like to refinance, pay of the rest of the taxes, and get some cash out for some more remodeling.

Looking at a two unit apartment building, thats been completely remodeled. 5 yr old roof, new carpets, appliances,drywall and even the brick work outside has been completely tuck pointed.

Too many to name, but that's maybe because I'm in the remodeling/developing business.

Ginny comes from a family of builders and remodelers.

Or if you normally do full remodels, you just budget for a full remodel.

If I were to sock away 20% for expenses, that gives me a small NOI, and the equity would be sitting in the house which really doesn't get me anywhere.The Refi would bump up my mortgage and I'd need to hold on to about 5K for an emergency fund, but if I put about 10K into remodeling, I can potentially break-even by charging more in rent.

PARTIALLY REMODELED, 2-3 BEDROOM UNITS, 1- 2 BEDROOM AND 1- 1 BEDROOM UNIT.

http://www.redfin.com/CA/Los-Angeles/3170-Farnsworth-Ave-90032/home/6952924This is a 5 bedroom newly remodeled duplex in a quiet neighborhood with laundry hookups in both units.