For example they took on (a) floating-rate debt (instead of fixed rate which was more expensive but safer), (b) short-term debt (cheaper but then they ran into refinancing problems) and (c) high levels of debt (to try to juice projected returns rather than conservative levels which aren't as "exciting" to a certain type of investor).

I didn't write off any of the expenses on my taxes and I'm worried I won't be able to write off the house or the renovation costs now that it's finished.

Since its a legit business, this will simply be a labor expense and expenses reduce your AGI(adjusted gross income) which lowers your tax liability.

So it was a little different than just having $150 altogether if there had been an absolute emergency I would have had about $1000/month after expenses by the end of the first year that was getting saved towards reserves.

And not just for big expensive things that I might have missed but for little things I’ll want to fix before I sell. 

Assignees who come in late and insist on closing with "my title company" sometimes get their way when the wholesaler is weak and inexperienced... but they should also expect to pay for all of the work undertaken, and all expenses incurred, by the first title company.

It was an expensive and extensive remodel project but it worked out great because of the AMAZING purchase price!

Since townhomes and condos can be less expensive they sometimes can cashflow a little better than SFH in year one, but over time the SFH appreciation in value and appreciation in rent growth can turn into better cash flow and more equity in the long run.  

If you are a veteran or the child of a veteran then I recommend USAA - their landlord policy is excellent and not expensive.

If that's not an option, maybe take the route of shelving that's not too expensive.