The rehabbing of the property was a bit over 33k which included a new HVAC System, Floors throughout the house, new bathrooms vanities, kitchen countertops paint and a lot of sheetrock work and trash removal.

The initial returns are lower on paper in better locations (lower cap rate, less initial cashflow according to the magic spreadsheet), but the overall returns in reality are much better including all the different ways people make money in real estate (gained equity through natural and forced appreciation, principle pay-down, increasing rents= higher cash flow when looking at the big picture if you buy and hold, depreciation tax benefits, plus way less of the big profit killers like turnover, non-paying tenants, property damage and theft, dealing with bad contractors because good ones don’t choose to work in bad areas either, etc.). 

Education Includes determing your best investment strategy, real estate strength & weaknesses, current and projected real estate market, and coming to understand what you don't know.Bigger Pockets is a great place to learn through blogs, posts and contacts here. 

The building has been extensively renovated by the prior owners in 2022 including new heat/ac, appliances, flooring, kitchens/bathrooms, roof.

I've had security deposits and pro rated rent at closing on dozens of deals with all kinds of loans including FHA.Are you maxed on credits?

Although it was in good condition, we earmarked some funds for further improvements, including repaving the driveway, installing a new privacy fence, and making select upgrades and repairs inside the units.One of the standout features of this property is its prime location near the vibrant downtown area of Bryan, with easy access to restaurants and shopping, which added considerable value to our investment thesis.Initially, our plan was to utilize the duplex for Airbnb rentals.

Now, you still have to comply with all of the standard 1031 rules -- including (A) buying properties that are at least as valuable as what you sell, and (B) moving all of your equity from the STRs into the LTRs -- then you may still pay some taxes even with a 1031. 

Houses are bigger, have more bells and whistles and people are willing to take on more debt-not for houses, but for extras (vacations, new cars every couple of years, experiences, etc). 

have your information handy - income, debts, etc. just tell them you're not ready to have your credit pulled but you'd like to know what you might qualify for.

The amount of concessions we’re asking don’t include the entirety of the things that were on the inspection report, we’re asking for about 17k in concessions.