@Micah DePascaleHaving dealt with many probate marketing clients from all over the country, both past and present, I totally agree with @Bruce Lynn above.

@Miguel Horta appraisers make mistakes and are often willing to up the value if you present a good argument with comps/market data.

Since I own the land, I can get an homeowner exemption meaning that I do not have to be a licensed GC and I can do everything myself as long as I will be present for all the counties inspections.

I have, actually still do to some degree, but I work the xSDs because they offer even greater potential for building tax deferred, and more importantly - Tax Free profits. 

Window screens should be present and operational, and should be free of any rips, tears and / or damage to the mesh portion of the screen.Heating units: should be dusted and access uncluttered, in compliance with local fire code.Hallways: should be clean and free of hazards.Stairwells: should be clean and uncluttered.Laundry areas: should be clean and neat.

@Justin BoydYou are eligible to exclude $250,000 of gain(if not married) for the unit that you lived in.You will be responsible for reporting the gain as a result of the other unit that was sold.The math is a little bit easier if both duplexes are equal in size.You may be able to defer the tax on the rental side via 1031 exchange/QOF.

The problem I see with evictions is that I would need a lot of evidence to present to the courts, and I'm not really sure how to go about providing sufficient evidence. 

@Bruce Woodruff As a Realtor, I sometimes go into my client's homes and help them "stage" with what they already have in order to present the home's best foot forward.

Recently, the high demand and lack of inventory has presented an opportunity for scam artists.

Being as you are getting a 1099 however(unfamiliar with this setup at present), it probably follows the same process.With that being said, I'd be interested in seeing this fund setup.