Kate,Let's start with the kitchen... yes, I would definitely continue the hardwood (I like the example you included, has a nice warm tone), especially with white cabinetry.

And please include the following:-How much do you have to invest-Do you have additional equity partners-How are your personal financesJust to be honest, you're unlikely to be able to invest in the tri-state area, even in Suffolk County.

I have been imagining building my sales website (buyers guide, community pages, IDX integration, home valuation page, etc) on MyOhioProperty.com and then building Evolvedproperty.com to give details on our services including making cash offers on homes, renovations, and our homes for rent.

Respected for his unique blend of creative and analytical thinking underpinned with a commitment to collaboration, intelligent risk-taking, entrepreneurial spirit and leadership presence within dynamic organizations he knows how to keep it real and close the deal.In addition to his business interests, Mark is involved in numerous community outreach and volunteer organizations including the South Brentwood Residents Association (advisory board member,) local homeless advocacy group The Giving Spirit (chairperson-fundraising, community outreach,) American Youth Soccer League (referee and division mentor,) and the Girl Scouts of America to name a few.

Stifel bank - I know several people, including clients (I'm an investor-friendly agent) who use them for that specific reason.  

I'd recommend enforcing your lease agreement and if it did not allow pets, send notice of non-compliance in accordance with the rules in your jurisdiction and, if not cured, ask them to leave (including eviction filing).  

Even my $3,360/yr maintenance budget feels a little low to me based on the rehab to be done on the first floor.Now, when I plug these numbers into the calculator referenced above (including an 8% vacancy and $280/mo for repairs and maintenance), I can see that you'll have monthly expenses of $1,640.  

There is a Texas Real Estate Commission form that includes all that. 

Be sure to include the specific language that is required in an eviction notice and be sure to properly serve the tenant.

Three months later I used them again for an investor rehab loan when I purchased an SFR (i planned to eventually live in) with a 20% conventional loan that included rehab costs.