The primary causes of being over budget were unexpected plumbing problems which then caused extra problems with the drywall and a decision to open up the house after the original budget was established.

I already had built a small tech based startup since 2004, I know I can do things, and as much shame or regret dropping out might cause: its a risk I had to take. ...

It is always good to see more Canadian's, Maritimers especially, here ... and a Bluenoser to boot.Congratulations to you and your wife for pursuing training and certification(?)

To close and a maximum amount.  

Double the congratulations from Ron, and a preemptive welcome to Asheville.I was in a similar situation last year and just asked the tenants what they thought- they said I could give them a free month's rent and that would be worth the hassle for them finding a new place and moving.

The 1st floor condo is currently utilized as a commercial office space and the layout is set-up without a full bath, proper kitchen, etc, but just right for a smaller office.The other 2 units are regular condos for families.I'm trying to figure out what option I am better off with:Option 1: Leaving the first floor unit condo as a commercial space, renovating it and trying to find an office to occupy it.orOption 2: Invest in doing a full kitchen and a full bath to make it a proper Tenant rental.Option 1 seems like it will be more economical but there is a risk it will take longer to find an office to rent the space vs a tenant, and the loss I take on finding that commercial renter may offset what it would cost to re-do the whole unit by investing in a full bath, kitchen, etc.I'm also wondering whether I'm better off having all 3 units be tenant-rental condos if it makes it easier to sell down the road or should I just consider keeping 1st unit as a commercial space and take the chance?

Looking for advice on granite or soapstone kitchen countertops that will look good with White cabinets, Agreeable Gray walls, and a beige-ish floor tile. 

I've been wanting to get into real estate as an investor and a agent for the past 2 years.

We have $130k in equity in the house, and as I said, we're saving for the rest. 

Keep in mind with FHA PMI there is an upfront 1.8xx% that you pay on closing then you also have monthly PMI and it never falls off the loan until you refinance(at above 20% equity).The reason I say refinance after 12 months is 95% of banks require a home to 'season' for 12 months between the initial sale and a refinance in order to take advantage of a higher home value.