I know that I stand to make more money per renovation by just paying for the work, but I'm attracted to the idea of partnering with him for a few reasons.

So many things are changing in the Insurance Industry, its something to really pay attention to.

I want to pay them a preferred rate of return on their money without giving up equity in the deal. 

-should i just bite the bullet and pay for the new HVAC systems?

That would be my #1 rec, I know I'm biased as an agent myself, but what you pay an agent to sell your properties for you, is worth it if you have a good one!

If you live in the property for two years and want to sell, you won't pay capital gains tax, so that is just another thing to keep in mind. 6.

You can offset this with points.When the lenders provides you with an estimate of the loan along with all the charges pay specific attention to:Origination fee - This is whereLoan Points - Sometimes they force you to buy a point and they bring down your rate in returnapplication feeunderwritting feeBasically you want to compare how much you are paying in all of these and what interest rate they are giving you based on this costs.

I have a friend that I just taught amortization to as he is trying to quickly pay off his mother's FHA loan to remove a co-signer, then cash out refi (yes, I explained interest rates right now).

You will certainly pay a premium for turnkey, but if your long-term goals are appreciation and stable yet modest growth, it is certainly advisable.

.- Maintaining Property Value: Renting to reliable tenants who pay on time and take care of the property helps maintain its value.