The chimney contractor replaced the cap, but requires the branches be trimmed before he can perform repairs on the chimney because it is still leaking into the fire place after the cap was replaced. 

This other thread was more focused on the initial subdivision and purchasing process.  

Check out NerdWallet for tips on budgeting and debt management.

It is big impact on short stays and less impact on longer stays. 

Its way easier to take a couple million from a bank or credit union through a Line of Credit than it is to please 100 small time investors with $50k invested.

Seller who had been on the property and had gone through divorce.

Low salary, low on funds, low on knowledge.

Why not do a cash out refinance on one of these deals?

In Texas, it isn't and it could hurt your bottom line very fast.

So on a 12 unit, I would keep an operating cushion of roughly 24-30k.