I don't do all of it - I've paid for new windows to be installed, and new gas space heaters, but SO much stuff you can find out how to do on YouTube and just gives you more knowledge overall to prevent contractors from dicking you around too!

As such I am shifting my strategy to buy in the more affordable housing space focusing on the Broad River/ Bush River area and Friarsgate in Irmo (for the schools). 

It has duck access from the bedroom closet Hope this is the answer of your questions.

This realtor has already set me up with automatic emails for new properties put on the market through his access to the MLS.

I think it all depends on what your risk tolerance is, and what your timeline is for how quickly you need to access the money.

I'm guessing it's a unit per each floor, in which case you will have challenges in accessing/modifying your supply and return ducts. 

I think having access to his connections alone has a value to it.

I'm in the multi family space and have had good luck.

-Nov. timeframe and will be pretty scarce until spring, especially in the small MFH space.

That's what I did in the multi space (and some became genuinely my best friends).