It's easy to get psychologically caught up in the deal-making process (which is a particular psychological bias that males have) and think that you have to make a deal soon!!!

My first instinct is to agree with other saying this is a bad investment, but I'm a little biased.

I've been a professional photographer for 12 years so obviously I'm a little biased when it comes to this subject but I've heard so many times from clients how much having professional photos helped sell the home.  

I admit, this is a biased idea considering I have a listing in this exact situation.  

A good home inspection reportReveals flaws, and items that most contractors doing walk thru's are willing to explore because a change order in the middle of the rehab is better for themIs a scope of work, and a check-list on things that could be performedIs a negotiation tool, that can be eye-opening to the seller.Gives you a professional report about the state of your property.But, then I may be a little biased.

We don't wanna deal with hearing couples fighting (lovers' quarrel etc) while studying, etc.Aren't we entitled to limit sharing out kitchen and bathroom with the same sex/gender?

If there is a 2-year project vs a 5-year project, the bias will be towards shorter as it lets you create feedback loops multiple times vs the 5-year project.

Pay for a 3rd party non-bias roof inspection.

@Casey KooimanI am very biased when it comes to this, but I will say the following:If you are stable with your tax situation (ie: not looking to grow your portfolio or create additional entities) and you have a good, affordable, and responsive tax preparer, then stick with him/her.

Before I start, my opinion will be very biased.