My tenant just moved in on October 1st and I want to be sure I am keeping all of the appropriate records for tax purposes.

I agree that you should file as soon as it is appropriate.

I am not a plumbing/heating expert, but I would describe the problem and perhaps ask about a mixing valve or appropriate temperature control technologies on the supplied to the bathing and washing outlets ( faucets/showers/etc).Best of luck.

Are there loans for tax lien investing that would be secured by the value of the lien, and what kind of loan would be most appropriate?

You will need to explain the details of the deal to all lenders involved so that the appropriate measures are in place.  

Then reduce it to cost per square feet.Then when you go into a place,  all you have to do is measure the appropriate room, do the math, and you'll have your number.

You can go here (http://gis.vgsi.com/providenceri/), look up the assessed value, and multiply by the appropriate %.

Then go, preferably with the neighbor, down to the city planing or other appropriate department.

I was unsure if that was appropriate.

I'm not a lawyer but even for a small job you'll need to have the parties identified, the scope of work, the draw schedule (when and how much you will pay the contractor) and any other conditions that are appropriate.