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.

I've done my best to research the process but wanted to get additional guidance.

Additionally, consider partnering with a HML.

Additionally, during my future engagement with the city, I'd like to know if this project will affect the building process, building code, and permitting process, considering our property is along one of the roads at the heart of this project.I recently saw the news about short-term rentals.

(income taxes)Additionally, the question of whether to hold until death or gift may also depend on the size of your mother's taxable estate and where you believe the estate tax laws to be headed. 

All of the other comments are great, I will just add one piece of additional advice, decide what you want your investment to look like five years from now.