After you run through a bunch of calculators, you will get more comfortable with making an offer based on your expected returns.Good luck on your journey!

You can still stay within the $400k purchase budget even if you qualify for $500, no one is going to force you to buy more than you're comfortable.

My father and I are comfortable using tools, and have taken care of some of the work, such as re-attaching gutters, trimming doors, adding downspouts, fixing toilets, etc...

Does anybody here has someone that you have worked with and feel comfortable referring? 

In terms of partnering, you need to make sure this is an individual that you are 120% comfortable working with.

Storage areas can include built-in cabinets, closets, attic space, and even outdoor sheds, etc.Laundry: Including a laundry area and machines is a big bonus for tenants, as they compare that with apartment living where they would have to use common laundry machines that require payment.HVAC: Make sure to include an effective dual heating & air-conditioning system to service the ADU, so your tenant is comfortable in the unit.Kitchen island: It may be difficult to squeeze in a kitchen island in a small ADU, but it’s a big bonus if you can make the space.

Out of all the options I've learned about, buy and hold I'm most comfortable with.

I'll do what I can to keep them comfortable, but the word "emergency" only applies to something like a fire, not a broken appliance. 

You'll end up with a property that is in better shape than when you made your offer and it should be worth significantly more than what you are purchasing it for.That's what I would do because I feel comfortable with the process.

I just don't want all of my savings sitting in a bank account, I want to invest my money to have a more comfortable life in the future.