I am a first time real estate investor and CPA in Louisville, KY and recently purchased a duplex (two unit each 1 bedroom one bath split level property) in the Highlands area which is a relatively high market value area in a prime location.

Ceramic tile in kitchens and baths.  

A HELOC will definitely help you with the costs.The next thing you will need is a general budget for each project you are going to tackle and that should keep you on track.The kitchen can be the most difficult especially when you are living in it.

I also initially try to tackle the big projects kitchen, bathrooms, ceiling scraping before i move in.

Getting quotes from GCs to complete interior renovations - mostly paint/carpet/minor kitchen and bathroom stuff.

Each unit has hookups in each kitchen.  

They have a bathroom in the basement that definitely needs updating and the kitchen is small and also needs an update.

All new kitchen, baths, roof etc. as we turn a 3/1 ( bedroom, 1 bath) into a 4/2.

Whether its tiling in the shower, vanity tops, kitchen backsplash - just something that stands out in their minds.I love opening up walls.

I'm wondering what others prefer to do in regards to the location of the stove within the kitchen?