I would have recommended getting it cleaned out.

I just sent you a PM with a good recommendation! 

Most professionals will recommend a separate LLC for every $1 million in assets, but I don't think that's necessary.

It seems I could scale my portfolio faster with an appreciation focus.Does anyone have any thoughts or recommendations on this?

We recommend you get management contracts from several PMCs and compare the services they cover and, more importantly, what they each DO NOT cover.

Can't technically recommend that but I really don't see the hard. 

I would suggest looking into Hemlane, I have worked with the CEO personally and they have a great product that I recommend to all self managing landlords. 

I'd love to hear what other people are doing and recommend; tips and tricks for guarding a vacant property. 

Great tenant that always pays on time - been there for 5 years Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I'd build up and go for at least 2 units but 3 stories is better. 3 story walk up apartments account for almost 65% of apartment developments round he country. this is what I'd recommend on your lot. this is 35' tall and we do it in columbus oh