Beyond the underwriting component what exactly is the end goal  here? 

And call me jaded but I often can judge which a person will be in a few minutes because 1 defining difference between the 2 is one is singularly focused, and the other has an entire fairy tale. 

Usual and customary usually refers to outdated but working components, such as old ducts in a house that do not support central air well for lack of returns.

All activities where you do NOT "materially participate" (which is also defined and will be discussed in a few minutes)2.

The tax advantages of buying/holding gas stations are pretty great.Many of the components of gas stations including pumps, tanks, external parking areas, and other equipment are classified as either 5 or 15 year property so you can bonus depreciate a lot of it (minus the land value) and get significant deductions in year 1.With the current bonus depreciation rate at 60%, a $1 million gas station acquisition could still lead to $100K+ in year 1 deductions depending on the specifics of your deal.

Assets identified in this study include:Building systems: water heater, electrical distribution, HVAC, plumbinPermanent Fixtures: windows, doors, bathroom fixturesStructural Components: Roof construction, drywall, wood framingInterior Construction: Wood flooring, stairs, ceramic tileThis engineering-based cost segregation study included the following methodology:Physical Inspection through a site visitDocumentation review including architectural plans, accounting records and construction documentsA cost analysis which utilizes engineering principles in order to allocate costs to their applicable asset classificationsCalculation of the depreciation schedule using MACRSAs a reminder, bonus depreciation started to phase out in 2023.

Those numbers do not seem correct, unless you are using terms like loan amount of $104,000 is the unpaid principal balance (which is the amount that accrues interest), and the $270,000 is the total payoff.There are two components to a mortgage statement - the first is the reinstatement amount - this is the amount to bring the loan current.

The vast majority of states also leverage figures on a federal return as a starting point to define taxable income, making adjustments to those figures to arrive at the portions of income that are taxable for state tax purposes. 

Now all of a sudden you have these new cabin units and you can significantly reduce your tax bill at least in the near term by splitting out the components.

Key Principles:Mindset and Goals:Think Long-Term: Real estate is a long term play in most cases Set Clear Goals: Define your financial goals and how real estate fits into your overall plan.Finding the Right Property:Location, Location, Location: Invest in areas with strong economic fundamentals, good schools, and low crime rates.Cash Flow is King: Look for properties that generate positive cash flow (rental income exceeds expenses).Consider Appreciation: While cash flow is primary, also consider properties in areas with potential for long-term appreciation.Financing:Get Pre-Approved: Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking at properties.Leverage Wisely: Use leverage (debt) to your advantage, but don't overextend yourself.Consider Creative Financing: Explore options like seller financing or partnerships.Building Your Team:Real Estate Agent: Find an experienced agent who specializes in investment properties.Property Manager: Consider hiring a property manager to handle day-to-day operations.Accountant: An accountant can help you with tax planning and financial management.Attorney: Consult an attorney for legal advice and contract reviews.Managing Your Investment:Maintain the Property: Keep your property in good condition to attract and retain quality tenants.Screen Tenants Carefully: Conduct thorough background checks on potential tenants.Review Your Finances Regularly: Track your income and expenses and make adjustments as needed.Example Action Steps:Set Your Goals: Define your financial goals and how real estate will help you achieve them.Educate Yourself: Read books and articles about real estate investing.