If you do the work yourself, and do the repairs for 10K rather than 20K, then you've really made 10K doing remodelling and not real estate investing.

I am a licensed remodel contractor in Calif, and honestly......I would not take on a job without a specific contract....what work is to be done, a set contract price, clause for additional cost above and beyond specified work and materials.

On my duplex my favorite remodeling projects were the restrooms and kitchen.

We have some good expeience (built our last home on our own, and have done some extensive remodels).

If you like remodeling then a remodeling project would be top of the list.As you gain experience you can expand out from your center.

I am goin to live in this and remodel it then try to sale it, rent it out if I have too.

I'm a recently divorced residential remodeling contractor from northern California.

Summary of my project: Upgraded old electrical systemComplete kitchen remodel (including soapstone countertops, copper farm sink, stainless appliances)Complete bath remodel (two)Removed walls on stairway, so now open stairwell with new newels, ballisters, etc.All new windows, doors and door hardwareAdded/replaced all molding (crown/baseboards/door/window etc.)Replaced all lights/outlets/switchesRefinished all floors (wood)Replaced all metal radiator covers with custom wood covers (turned many into great little windowseats)And finally (of course) every single paintable surface has been painted!

Can you get repairs and/or remodeling reimbursed?

I am also a newbie.I am planning the remodel of a House with apt and need your advice.