Recession comes from spending money on non income producing items.

It's a line item on the closing documents.

In general, I would say Kitchen, Bathrooms and any deferred maintenance should be your focused items. 

Just think about raising our own kids those toddlers really can mess up your paint and sheetrock and other items..

The best place to start is with a spreadsheet that has every every cost itemized. 

If you do have gains, you may be able to offset other properties losses to reduce the tax burden.

or, do you cash flow only after you've set aside money for capex and other items? 

I guess I’m loss.

Additionally, strong tax planning is essential, as your W2 income limits your ability to deduct passive losses.

Once I get to a point that it is making enough per month that I feel comfortable taking money out of the business that would be when I get to the point that it is worth have a specialist assist me in all deductions, credits, and future items that will help me to transfer from a W2 to working for myself fully.