Additional lights can add a lot at night but become a nuisance to tenants and neighbors.

Projects in this price range are our bread and butter -- custom builds, whole house remodels and additions. 

I've purchased legal assistance via MetLife, and I have requested my company HR to get additional legal assistance.

Duplex have different zoning that may permit additional units.

Potential for additional rental income.Cons: Higher upfront costs for construction.

I have a good HVAC/plumber and an electrician (that I rarely have to use), in addition to a good carpet cleaner. 

I don't think taking cash out in refinance raises your cost basis to calculate your taxable gains at sale unless you used the cash-out refi for an addition to the house. 

In addition to numerous tradition RE related investments (most individually owned but some as LP), here are our unusual investments (both are RE related, but not what is common on this site)- I have mentioned this one a few times on BP, when fracking was just starting to be known to the general public (near turn of century), we purchased mineral rights in North Dakota.  

With $20k in savings and an additional $4k monthly saving rate, I'm navigating my next steps carefully, especially since I value starting with a substantial equity position in any deal.Here are the options I'm contemplating:Invest in a Low Entry Property: With my capacity for a 20% down payment, I'm considering properties in the $100k-$120k range.

Additionally, Ohio's generally landlord-friendly legal environment, compared to Philadelphia, makes it an appealing investment location.