Mechanical updates include all new electrical wiring, and updated plumbing.

The one issue I have with Houston is that it's  geographically located in a region that in the future, will most likely see more powerful and frequent hurricanes and flooding due to climate change / global warming.

@Marcus Holloway Generational wealth is a powerful "why" It's definitely part of my why.

While we can create separate spaces for each unit but..the electrical boxes would then no longer be accessable to each unit..they sit next to each other and would be contained on only one side of the partition..

The most powerful ongoing strategy I've seen (and used myself) is a combination of sec 121 and sec 1031.  1031 is for the sale and repositioning of investment real estate. 

Who will be paying water, gas, electric, landscaping, etc during those 6 weeks?  

I assume all new electric, plumbing, hvac.

If it's on the market, you don't have much negotiating power at all.

Doing my first deal in Columbus and I'm in need of an attorney to draft a lease, and a few subs (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).

By refinancing your current loan and going to a 30 year fixed loan, you are able to reduce your minimum monthly debt and increase your purchasing power because your debt ratios will be reduced in the eyes of your lender.