I've partnered with several contractors over the years (before I got my own license) and it is very normal for the contractor to be paid for materials and labor, even if they are doing the build "at cost"It's complicated and as other have stated, you've gotten yourself in too big of a mess to be sorted out by some people on an internet forum. 

There’s growing talk about imposing tariffs on imported construction materials like steel, aluminum, and lumber.

You should go over with your GC - weekly updates on labor and materials spent, deadlines for each project.

And if something pops up later such as unpaid material man, or a couple of subs who received no payment and did not provide lean releases- do you go after the contractors bond money after filing for a court order to do so?

Stay on top of material price trends, and have contingency plans for unexpected costs.

When I have to buy material from Home Depot for my rentals.

**Mesa's Eastmark area** - Strong school districts driving family demand Property Types in DemandThe most profitable flips currently involve:- 3-4 bedroom single-family homes built between 1970-1990- Properties with pool potential (but without existing pools)- Homes with generous lot sizes that allow for expanding square footage Renovation Trends That SellPhoenix buyers in 2025 are particularly drawn to:- **Energy efficiency upgrades** - With Arizona's extreme temperatures, smart thermostats, improved insulation, and energy-efficient windows offer significant appeal- **Outdoor living spaces** - Covered patios, pergolas, and native landscaping that requires minimal water- **Modern desert aesthetic** - Clean lines, earth tones, and natural materials that connect to the Sonoran landscape- **Flexible spaces** - Home offices or multi-purpose rooms that accommodate remote work Challenges to Navigate Water ConcernsThe ongoing drought situation means water-conscious renovations are no longer just trendy—they're essential.

I have REPS by actively and materially participating in my rental property portfolio, and also work as a real estate broker full time (1099 collecting commissions through a single member/purpose LLC) from buildings I sell.My losses from my rental properties (LLC #A) largely offset any federal and state taxes from my brokerage business (LLC #B).

I had an issue in a duplex once with a tough renter.

Streamlining Renovations for Efficiency & Cost ControlManaging multiple renovation projects at once demands an operational efficiency that can be tough to achieve.