Can't recommend @Joseph Cornwell enough, he helped me buy my first duplex in Cincinnati and he has a contracting business, so he can give you advice on repairs, remodel costs, etc

Maybe repairs so I don't have to use my current nest egg for any vacancies.

You can use it to secure a loan, usually between 75-80% of its value, giving you the financial muscle to pay cash for your new property in Florida, in your preferred areas between Port Saint Lucia and Melbourne/Viera.For example (I'm making assumptions):Imagine you're selling your Kentucky home for $400,000.

**Quality of the Property**: The property itself is of good quality, requiring minimal immediate repairs and offering modern amenities that are attractive to tenants.3.

I repair them myself (I knock out the cardboard stiles and replace them with solid pine) but the ones right out of the store are pure junk.

Keep the money for the days it was vacant (ie if you rent it Aug 1, then you keep 1 month's rent) and any damage that you had to repair. 

This could limit your ability to refinance in the future to lower your payments.Rental Viability: Renting out a very new home (built in 2019) may not be ideal due to potential wear and tear concerns and the fact that it's less likely to need significant repairs or updates that tenants often expect.Local Market Considerations: Chicago's property market is known for high property taxes and historically slower appreciation compared to other markets.Financial Necessity: If you don't have a strong financial or personal reason to move, such as proximity to work, family, or lifestyle changes, it may not justify the hassle and costs of buying a new primary home.I am a loan officer so feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any other questions or would just like to discuss!

If so, lean on your experience with those to underwrite vacancy, bad debt, repairs, etc. appropriately for the condition and location of these properties.

I purchased a somewhat run down vacant auto repair facility with all equipment in tack for about $115,000 in 1981.  

She NEVER provides any notice of anything that breaks, needs repair / replacement.