It’s a great reminder to trust your own due diligence and not let others make critical decisions for you, like hiring a property manager.For future investments, building a trusted team and maintaining direct oversight is key, even with remote deals.

Here are the numbers:IncomeTotalPartner ContributionsManaging Partners Debt$0.00Partners Deposits$987,459.99Total Contributions$987,459.99Operating IncomeAirbnb Income$50,186.50Square Income (Vehicles or add-ons)$6,741.04Total Operating Income$56,927.54Total Income$1,044,387.53ExpensesPurchase of propertyCost of House-680,000.00Closing Costs-$26,744.44Total Cost of Purchase-706,744.44Set Up ExpensesHouse Improvements & Care taker home addition-116017.03Adding Tiny House-52130.83Furnishings-68403.65Vehicles-43150Set Up Costs and Advertising-2339.53Total Cost of Set Up-282,041.04Operating expensesCare Takers-14535.9Additional Cleaners-1505Cleaning Supplies-2670House Supplies-1340Landscaping-4230.66Utilities (Power & Water)-8204Internet-315Pest control/fumigacion -120Pool cleaning/maintenance-2220Vehicle Gas-552.3Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs-6625.01Welcome Food for Guests-115Property Repairs-4999.64Bank Fees-1208.06Accounting Fees-1085Insurance-955.74Other Expenses-1071.2Total Operating Costs -$51,752.51Total Expenses-$1,040,537.99Net Income$3,849.54Net Operating Income$5,175.03Now 5k for an investment of 970k is not a good investment.  

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

The IRS is very clear about the distinction between the two scenarios.  1099 subcontractors provide their own tools, set their own schedules are not directed by the hour. 

Your taxes are none of the ex wife's business and this would seem to address your concerns.I would also put her on notice that future requests for financial discovery will be two-way and if a discrepancy is seen in the other direction you will seek support from her.

If you’re looking for ways to make the numbers work, sometimes that means evaluating different markets, financing options, or property management strategies that help mitigate risks like vacancies and maintenance surprises.You’re not alone in feeling like 2025 could go in multiple directions, but one thing remains true—real estate continues to be one of the strongest vehicles for long-term wealth when approached the right way.

Seller Financing or Private MoneyNegotiate low or no down payment directly with the seller.Private lenders may offer low down options if you find a great deal.

.- If you try to hire contractor directly, you have about a 90%+ chance of getting taken advantage of.

If you put down an earnest deposit, you might lose out on that if you decide to back out(potentially). look at the agreement.The more important thing is, do you quality for conventional financing?

Section 179 deductions may apply to assets directly supporting your business, excluding personal-use components.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.