Next, deduct 30%. 

Originally posted by @Brian Van Pelt:@Peter T.I implemented this and have 9 years without a call for change lightbulbs/clogged toilet/ smelly drain / broken window / shovel/salt sidewalks / bent curtain rods or bathroom towel holdersMove out inspections have no repair issues other than picture holes i walls.You may "think" it's ridiculous, but I'll compare my maintenance expenses with your properties any day.I have never had a $100 deductible and I have also never had a call to change a light bulb, clogged toilet or any of those things you mentioned.

If the water heater would have needed to be replaced, the service call/fee is usually waived or deducted from the total cost of replacing the entire unit and labor.All licensed/insured contractors that I'm aware of charge service fees.

If you're small business owner that is profitable, get a vehicle that qualifies for a sec 179 deduction/bonus depreciation. 

I’m getting quotes from $1200 to $1300 a year, pending deductibles.

This means that next year the joint venture will file a Form 1065 and issue K-1s to both you and your brother if there are items of income, deduction or credit from the venture. 

Also, you might want make sure that your expenses are actually deductible.

We’re talking about both the mortgage interest deduction and something called “depreciation” that you can typically use as a tax write-off against your income.

Imagine if your neighbor was waiting to get paid or waiting for someone to repair the fence because he/she didn't want to file a 2K claim because the deductible is probably half the amount of the claim?

If you're preparing your return on your own you'll want to make sure to look for the carryforward in the following tax year and the remaining amount may be deductible depending on your income.