You get grandfathered into the codes that were in place at the time, you get the old setbacks, you don't pay an architect, engineer, city and permit fees, plan check costs, school fees and other costs that will not come with an existing house.Not saying that you can't build new for less than a remodel, but not usually when you add in all the costs above. 

Looks like one is better for a flip and the other has an incredible upside with equity so we plan on holding that one. 

I'm planning to use VAs to help with the first part that you mentioned - qualifying homeowners based on interest in / willingness to sell.

@J Shoe A trust isn’t used for asset protection purposes, it is purely for estate planning.

New RVP flooring and painting walls, trim, and ceilings are also included in this cost.Deck additionWith space to enjoy the great outdoors continuing to be high on home-hunters’ wishlists, a deck addition is a great investment, even if you plan on selling soon.

To do well, learn about real estate, make a strong plan, meet local investors, check the market, look into loan choices, start small then grow, stay ready for changes, and get advice from pros.Learn about market trends, loan options, and ways like renting out for long or short terms.

From a tax planning perspective, you are only allowed to start writing off the home once it is placed into service (once the lease starts).You are also only allowed to write off the depreciation, and any other costs or losses against the earnings from the property.That is, unless they get the real estate professional status, which requires 750 hours a year working in real estate.

I plan to travel down there next weekend (about 3.5 hours away), so I am gathering all the necessary info.If I did cashout refi on my current property, i can pull out $155k towards this but will be left with an additional 45k or so if doing 80 LTV, which is why I am leaning toward seller carry a second mortgage.Lenders out there, now you have my deal, can you do it?

I need to draw up plans, get a site survey and do some other build up.

I am just starting my plan on getting my first investment property this year.