The intended net benefits to the company (at a high level) were ehancing scalability, increasing service levels, improving flexibility, and modestly decreasing long term maintenace costs on the portfolio.

Unless you're doing real estate as your only job, you're not a professional by this IRS definition.Point 2, as you take depreciation (or, even it you could, but for some crazy reason don't) the "basis" of your property decreases.

It may be easier and more cost-efficient to build a multi-housing carport like the ones here and adjust the rent accordingly.Having a carport could decrease vacancies and potentially improve the quality of tenant you attract.

For instance, if your ARVs are much less than $250k then the $120k spread won't work because you would never win a contract using approach since expenses decrease, etc.

They sell irons that automatically turn off after a little bit to decrease that risk.To the extent you can find the right people, eliminate common problems 1 by 1 (change light switches if necessary, get automatic turn-off iron), refer people back to FAQ's with auto-reply, maybe put labels on things in the house if necessary, try to invite the same guests back who know your place, etc etc, it can help marginally reduce the repeat questions.

I have some costs and what not which decreased my return to about 800%. 

You should also maintain more control of your projects as you mature and your tolerance for time wasters and people with unrealistic expectations should decrease.  

This allows you to stock pile money faster and thus afford a down payment to refi and or get to the 80% threshold bc the property will appreciate 5-6% in 5 years, thus decreasing the margin you will need to refi at.The key is appealing to the overall amount he will make from the sale.

I know a few people that jumped on bitcoin when it was under $2000 and have "made" a ton....if they sell before a decrease.

On top of that, losses in charitable contributions may easily be offset by other changes with a net decrease in taxes, making this entire conversation moot.