The employer match is a gift. 100% return immediately.

We always introduce ourselves to direct neighbors and give them a small Whole Foods gift card in advance for them having to deal with the noises or unsightly dumpster, etc. that come with any reno.

Perhaps a gift card, dessert, or something simple.What are your thoughts?

Ive done a baby gift for a newborn.

Not saying it can't be done, but if you are just starting out its not the easiest path.

If my father is going to gift some of his equity position to my siblings and I am going to manage the property, what is an easy way to do this? 

Anytime you can't control how someone treats your things (tenants), you need to make it as indestructible as you can.In short, I think the easiest and less stressful approach would be to remove the flowers from that spot.

I also do not want to be liable for any gift tax to the IRS! 

While I own a condo in the city that has great potential, I am interested in learning more about:-Access to investment funds-Flipping (finding deals and cost efficient ways to rehab)-Wholesaling (this may be the easiest way to dip my toe in the water?)

Say your house is in dallas, city goes bankrupt, has to hike property tax by 10x (easiest way to collect money for a city), values decline a lot and can be worth zero.