Ya there's a good chance the property manager is also marking up the fee, so if you can find a solid contractor to do it cheaper I think it's a great way to go as long as the quality of the work is the same.  

Once they realized they could increase the taxes and the city trash collection on it they converted it with not so much as a notice to me.

Recommend you speak with a tax professional about how many days you can rent it out before you lose 2nd home classification and have to call it a rental.This reclassification may affect your mortgage 2nd home requirements.

Looking for state income tax free properties and a possible move for myself to a state income tax free state as well.

You may want to consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for a tax strategist willing to work with you throughout the year, not just when preparing your tax return.You want an accountant who can help you strategize and who is responsive when you want to know the tax consequences of the financial decisions you are making throughout the year.Good luck.

Beside the “subject to” that’s recently become the subject of much debate we utilized  ”no interest short term owner financing”, the “2nd mortgage crank”, substitution of collateral, mortgage subordination, wrap loans, real estate “exchange” (not for tax reasons), sale - lease back, guaranteed rent payments, sale - buy back, land offered in lieu of down payment, zero coupon bonds as substitution of collateral, and a few others that escape my memory.  

My properties in 2 states account for about 80% of my cash flow, but the 4 SFH I have in Birmingham account for only 20%.I don’t want to sell as I’ll incur lots of tax (as they were part of a 1031 in the past), but wonder any strategies like seller finance, etc that could possibly result in higher returns on these properties.I am curious what other BP landlords do when a few properties in their portfolio aren’t pulling their weight….Thanks!

Meanwhile he received a mortgage origination fee on each mortgage; a small profit on the sale of each lot; and a broker commission on each house build.

There are several ways to qualify for a new purchase, but the current income will depend on how much is claimed on tax returns for 'full income' documentation.

Her fees are straight forward, no surprises.