You can not mix your IRA with your personal investments/finances, IRS rules prohibit that.

So, my question to you RE experts in 1031 exchange is, are there any tax strategies to implement post 180 day exchange rule expiration to avoid this mortgage boot tax??  

The question: I would like to know if there is an acceptable exception to the "cash flow is king rule".

The front and back porches have settled and still have the old brick and cinder block columns along with some makeshift added supports.

@Matt EngleThank you for response, my goal is to reach financial freedom In the shortest time possible by using real estate as an investment vehicle, having the ability to be flexible and live the life I want and be around my family as much as possible, support my parents/famil y and build a community in my native country of Zimbabwe.

RE is always local, but the rehab deals in my area a nearly impossible to find unless I'd lower my margin...I generally use the 70% rule. 

Is there a rule of thumb for setting a reserve amount? 

My rule of thumb for a class D is that you need to make your money completely back on the property in 2-5 years. 

I know about the 70% rule and realize that there will be minor repairs.

With a basis of $138k and only $1,000 monthly rent, your well below the 1% rule (a basic back-of-the-envelope calculation used by investors to quickly determine a go or no-go decision).