You might get a few extra bucks in rent, but it's not going to pay for the siding/windows.

I think the laws here require you to rent the apartment as quickly as possible to release the tenant if they want to end the lease anyway, so you aren't getting more than maybe an extra month of rent from them. 

He added that Trane furnaces are what he recommends but if I want to save a few hundred dollars I can buy an Ameristar Furnace as it's made by Trane (but isn't as sleek-looking, which accounts for the discount) - but he stated it's of the same quality. 

Rewire, refinished hardwoods, new countertops, new paint, added a bedroom, put vinyl floorings in apartment.

It may sound nice to pay a 5% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no add-on fees.

We refinished hardwoods, added carpet, completely redid the kitchen, light fixtures, and painted the interior and exterior.

Depends on their motivation.If you get a relative to sell you an extra home they no longer want, they might be up for zero down.

It's a great way for me to learn and eventually make some extra cash on the side doing something fun.Is photography your main business?

Thanks @James Masotti, I actually just got added to the email thread by a friend of mine yesterday and am looking forward to it!

You're adding a ton of value to the BP community with your advice and tips!