Personally, I'm in the growth phase so I'm still working to acquire more properties and utilize more leverage. 

Utilize tools like BiggerPockets for resources and calculators, and consider creating a simple spreadsheet to track property details, budgets, and timelines.

I'm an asset-based (hard money) lender from Atlanta with an extensive 15-yr background in residential and commercial real estate looking to learn more from the BP community and how I can help those that need investment financing. 

Also, it often helps to connect with a local agent/do extensive due diligence on renovated/new construction properties to see what the property may sell for or appraise for (if doing BRRRR method) as that can impact the price you should pay.

To minimize capital gains tax on the sale of their primary residence, your in-laws can utilize the $500,000 capital gains exclusion, potentially explore an installment sale to spread tax liability over several years, or consider converting the property into a rental to use a 1031 exchange for tax deferral eventually.

Security Deposit: 2600Lease states no smoking/painting walls/no hanging things on wallsTenants have moved out and have left two truck loads of garbage to be removed.Damaged doorPainted walls which got on the ceiling and trim Lots of holes on the walls throughout the houseDamage from windows being left open constantly Weed was clearly smoked in the house (smell throughout the place) so we need to deep cleanWater bill wasn't paid so I had to turn back on utilityMissing keyQuoted costs:$450 junk removal (some furniture)$935 for damaged doors/windows, painting cleaning$30 for utility turn onTenants were only there for a year before moving out so a lot of this is beyond normal wear and tear. 

The LLC helps when you are trying to do things like turn on utilities. 

The “work around” in those states requiring licensure is usually to utilize an incensed mortgage broker in that state as originator/broker while you’re the lender.

@Will Almand this sounds like a very useful case for cost segregation especially if you can utilize the depreciation expenses against your income.

Utility deposits?