But now I know to push the painter off until after all electrical and plaster is completely done.

Simply Safe systems are great to use so long as you keep the electricity on.Otherwise, if you have boots-on-the-grounds, PM, Realtor, etc. that can pop by regularly to check locks and show that the property is being checked on.You can install live, or dummy cameras, on the exterior of the property as a deterrent as well.Best of luck to you!!

Attractiveness As we all know, the aesthetics and design of buildings send powerful messages to the people who visit them.

I don't mind doing electrical, but I'm not an electrician, and this place needs one. 

@Nick OliveriHi Nick,Being a carpenter and electrical experience saves you a lot of time and money.

I'm inclined to swap natural gas HW tanks for electric when they die to make it easier/quicker on replacement, but curious if anyone has been using tankless as they claim to have a longer life. 

In no certain order this is what we find matters most on a BRRRR appraisal as far as things you can control- outside curb appeal- remodeled kitchens, baths- Updated electrical and HVAC- a new roof if the current one is a big eye sore

Purchase price: $125,000 Cash invested: $85,000 Started off as a run down outdated 1 bedroom 1 bath home in Sanger - was purchased from a wholesaler for $125k - Added 1 full bedroom to the house, replaced wall heaters and window AC with HVAC ands ducting throughout - replaced old circuit breaker panel with new updated one and rewired interior electrical, replaced all windows with dual pane windows, replaced most of the doors, laid new carpeting in the bedrooms and wood plank flooring in the living room, tile in kitchen and bath, added new baseboards and painted interior, replaced all doors in the house, granite countertops, new lower cabinets, all new appliances, added rails to the front porch, converted an older closet into a laundry room / new closet, completely remodeled bathroom to make way for a new door to the new bedroom ( not shown in pics), new wall tile in tub/shower, redid some roofing, and painted the entire exterior.

Add 1 bedroom to the house, HVAC and ducting throughout , rewired interior electrical, all new dual pane windows, replaced doors, new carpeting in the bedrooms and wood plank flooring in the living room, tile in kitchen and bath, added new baseboards and painted interior, replaced all doors in the house, granite countertops, new cabinets, all new appliances, a laundry room / new closet, remodeled bathroom, new tile in shower, redid some roofing, and painted the entire exterior.

Heating during winter is completely dependent on electricity.