Consult a tax professional to optimize deductions and explore strategies like Real Estate Professional Status or short-term rental loopholes to apply depreciation to non-passive income.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

There is a significant crack in an outside wall of the foundation that I still need to have someone evaluate.

Quote from @An Lan: I am not a professional real estate investor, I just invest in houses as a safe asset and do not choose to rent them out.

@Eli JermanYes, you should hire a tax professional.

Quote from @Michael James Hamlin: We just moved to Baldwin county and we are looking to network/partner up with other professionals in new construction, fix and flip or commercial.

Hi Tio, I don't think hiring a professional designer is wise as it will cut into your margins and sounds like you have a tight budget. 

Absolutely - East Hill is a really popular area for traveling heath care professionals, as well as military on short term TDY orders who are looking for furnished stays.Keys to success for my condo have been keeping the furniture fresh, and not looking like every other listing out there.

If your friends have a rental they should hire a tax professional. 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

It may be worth having an experienced professional helping you and you could always try to get the seller to pay your agent’s fees.