Quote from @David Griffin: Quote from @Corby Goade: Why are you asking them for permission to perform repairs on your property? 

@Heidi FahringerReal Estate Expertise - Are they familiar with real estate-specific tax strategies, such as depreciation, 1031 exchanges, and write-offs for repairs, property management, etc.?

Mark, we have some units that have hardwoods that we're repairing/restoring.

All in for example, 75k, rent 1600, thats 2% + That gets me going :) 15-20% net, so this is after any forecasted vacancy, repairs, property taxes etc. 

You’d gain tax deductions, and you’d relieve yourself or your parents of any additional work regarding reservations or repairs. 

I haven't been expanding my business with LMHA since the end of 2016 per my posts above so I don't know exactly what changed, but I expect the outsourcing of inspections to private industry + some executive level leadership + replacement of staff with new faces excited to serve the needs of HUD/Landlords/Those In Need has resulted in an agency I will develop more business with.The HCVP will always be a double edged sword for landlords (See Section 8 Bible discussion) but for now I have discovered it is finally worth the effort to participate in the program.I specialize in Toledo's transition neighborhoods, discounted houses on the edge of nicer areas but also on the edge of trash...the Section 8 program allows me to get long-term tenants who are a good business model provided they are consistently managed and visited/inspected for additional "visitors" (relatives and random dogs/cats) and damage/housekeeping which can destroy a home if left unchecked.You need to know the rules, repair and renovate for long-term durability, prepare for inspections thoroughly and keep a team of contractors who will hold those standards...after 8 years we have been through a hundred inspections.

A family member contacted me directly, so my agent hasn't been involved at all with this deal so far.In that case, the only reason that you would pay him the 3 percent is you wanted the assistance with the whole process from negotiation, home inspection, negotiating any repairs, mortgage and closing and title referrals.

You need a report done so you can request repairs or credits and a handyman isn't doing that and the seller wouldn't validate it.

Before listing it, I had lots of expenses, including painting, floor refinishing, plumbing repairs, staging, cleaning, etc.In a 1031 exchange, I purchased two small multifamily homes which also have some roof work, painting, plumbing, etc. 

Then after they take their fees, and any repair costs for the month, I get direct deposits to my account of the remaining balance.