@Serge Hounkponou Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Purchase price: $86,000 Cash invested: $2,500 After being done with Rich Dad, Poor Dad, several podcasts (including bigger pockets), and other resources we were desperate to take action.

I've consulted a few times over the years with planners and with the way I buy properties, my liquidity requirements, and my concerns about about how government overspending affects the future, makes me a poor candidate for IRAs and 401(k)s with the stifling regulations.   

It appears he had done poor underwriting.  

Simple touches like fresh paint, landscaping, and clean walkways can make a big difference.Highlight Key Features: During the appraisal, point out any high-quality materials or unique features you've added.

Here are key adjustments:Kitchen ($50k): Likely $60k-$70k for custom cabinetry, quartz, and premium appliances.Bathrooms ($40k): Expect closer to $50k-$60k for four bathrooms with high-end finishes.Flooring ($20k): Likely $25k-$30k for engineered hardwood, refinishing, and tile.Exterior ($12k): More realistically $15k-$18k with landscaping and a quality front door.Misc.

The quality of available tenant varies drastically depending on the neighborhood.

You will learn the cost of maintenance/cap ex and how tenant quality plays a big role.  

.• Use some equity from the sale to make this transition smoother.I’m torn between maintaining our current home as an asset and buying  a new smaller house to use as a rental after we move back in versus simplifying and focusing on a single upgraded property Considering factors like market trends, potential equity growth, and quality of life, which path do you think would be most beneficial?

The quality of the reports you receive also varies.