Also, if the contractor is performing the work or the repairs on the property, can I count that time the GC spent as my own time in the activity log since he was doing the work on my behalf?   

I was batting around the idea of investing in a few small tax liens to raise capital for future real estate investments, but I've decided my time would be better spent doing other things.

Until you’ve spent more time networking and building relationships you’re just going to get taken advantage of.

I have tried Direct Mail before and received about two calls back and spent about $400 on materials.

This past week, I feel like I spent more time on the real estate than the restaurants (city inspections, building permits, managing a construction crew, late rent from tenants, etc. etc. etc). 

But you cannot take a property that you have spent $150k in purchasing and renovating, then depreciate it on a $300k value. 

Secondly - a truth you should hear that others have commented gently, the market doesn't care how much you spent on XYZ. 

I would be very happy to schedule a Zoom meeting and compensate you for your time spent mentoring me on this subject.Thanks,Kevin

Quote from @Manuel Angeles: Consult an attorney.

I’ve listened to their every fix and have spent more money doing it.