Here are a few lessons I learned during the renovation, many of which stemmed from the age of the house and unexpected hidden damages:1.Damaged Plumbing: Several plumbing pipes were ruptured or severely damaged, requiring replacement.2.Termite Infestation: I discovered termites, which led to additional costs for treatment and repairs.3.Rotted Wood: Significant sections of wood in the structure were rotted and had to be replaced.4.Lack of Insulation: There was no insulation in the att Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Very simple - tell them to call me if they can't figure it out.I would not tell the tenant what I was doing and if it was ever discovered that I had done it - I would explain that I did it as a standard safeguarding of my property - in case the original thermostat should ever fail while no one was there to monitor the space temperature - the backup thermostat would save us all from freezing damage.

The past 3 people who did that have either continued to be demanding or have had their contracts "canceled" and I have to work to get the money in the long run.

After a $500 plumber bill I no longer wish to continue stressing out about this business; at the beginning (10 years ago) it was fun and challenging, now, after seen how we are the ogres (landlords in general), the outrageous government response with the eviction moratorium during Covid, the raise in taxes and insurance, service people who charge you more than a brain surgeon, the fact that this country is becoming dangerously socialist and the tenant drama I finally decided It is time to look elsewhere for investments.I just cannot find any information of what to do when I sell my properties.

Our hands are tied accordingly however as we cannot influence the appraiser and need to keep them truly independent (as every legitimate lender in the space knows as well if they want to continue as such)

(And hopefully, you'll share it here so we can all continue to learn.) 

My wife intends to continue working so that helps for sure.

I’m very glad to be here to read the blog &  continue learning from pros like you all!

Focus on affordable markets, build a strong network, and continually educate yourself through books, podcasts, and deal analysis to steadily expand your portfolio.Good luck!

This lets both the investor and the builder do what they do best.I think this will continue to be a growing part of the investing landscape.