The tenant claims there is mold in the house per some report from the City.

The common threads among prosperous real estate investors include knowledge, networking, and proactive behavior.

This would require you to each report your share of the activity (depreciation included) on your individual tax return according to ownership %. 

Almost everyone here on BP will tell you that they wish they had started earlier, myself included.4.

Same strategy -> Let the data drive decisions (include updated tax, interest rate, rent numbers, etc.)2. 

Dave Ramsey has a lot of great ideas including avoiding consumer debt, but he applies more to those who are risk-adverse.

The plan is to self manage at least for the first 5-10 years so it makes sense not to include this.

Spend some time conducting in-depth research, including speaking with a professional in the field, and base your choices on your objectives, your tolerance for risk, and the particulars of the markets in the locations you are considering.Good luck!

being a new build we had to add some basics, like blinds and a yard (including a sprinkler system that I installed myself, I learned a lot there)What was the outcome?

This also includes future medical because that is becoming one of the biggest expenses.