In most of CT, I would go into any investment with no expectation of natural appreciation.

If I want to do a boring old conventional loan with some light rehab for my first deal, I’m in the world of inspection. 

They come up with a number for cosmetic work, another for a light rehab, another for a "normal" rehab, and another for a "major" rehab. 

I made sure the house smelled good, had all the lights and fans on, heater at the right temperature, blinds open, etc. 

Though I did go back with all vintage door knobs, doors, rewired old light fixtures and custom built a few from scraps, and used the plank kitchen floor (unsalvageable due to rot) as the wall in the hallway.

Sometimes its as simple as replacing a boring light fixture in a kitchen, adding a programmable thermostat, or removing troublesome landscaping. 

:-occupy the home more than 2weeks a year-I would not rent the house more than 180 days on Airbnb- not have the house in a lease that exceeds 30 days - have control of the house at all times ( no property management or long term lease)Everything fell together and my original gave me the green light to proceed.

I grew up in small one stop light town and my market still feels "big" to me.

Easy way to save some money, get some sun, and a light workout. - Snow is hit or miss.

Naturally I had a title report pulled and it was clean.