Also, ask them what the most popular colors and color schemes are, since they deal with painters and homeowner directly, they can be treasures of information of what accent colors are being used and where, etc.* Call local property mgr's and/or ask for referrals from your relator friends/associates, and ask them for referrals - sometimes they will be nice enough to offer helpful advice, especially, if you tell them you will consider using them when you turn the house into a rental in a yearAs a 27yr appraiser and Realtor/Broker, the paint job has minimal affect on the value, unless it is so bad that I have to mark it down in quality and/or condition.

However, there is such a thing as a self-directed solo 401k plan which is very popular for those who are self employed.Following are the similarities and differences between the solo 401k and the self-directed IRA.The Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401k Similarities Both were created by congress for individuals to save for retirement;Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes, private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;Both allow for Roth contributions;Both are subject to prohibited transaction rules;Both are subject to federal taxes at time of distribution;Both allow for checkbook control for placing alternative investments;Both may be invested in annuities;Both are protected from creditors;Both allow for nondeductible contributions;Both are prohibited from investing in assets listed under I.R.C. 408(m); andNeither may be invested in your own business.  

It seems like this is one of the biggest challenges for people in real estate.This will not be a popular post, but taking a course on raising money will not magically raise money for someone.

@Paul B. you're right, the terms @John Stanley mentioned are good terms and contrary to popular belief there are groups  who offer deals without acquisition fees. 

It is the most popular software in the industry and all CPAs know how to navigate it which is nice.QBO has a great projects tool that allows you to see all of your ongoing expenses for a particular project. 

I just purchased a lot in a popular vacation area.

I'm often presented with opportunities to acquire investment condos in Orlando, Miami, and other popular Florida cities.I always decline.Read the article below to understand better why "condo" and "Florida" are now a particularly bad combination!

The Roseville one is pretty popular, haven't tried the one in Folsom.I'd be happy to share what I'm finding in Yuba City, just ping me with your email.

I know this is not the popular opinion on BP, but this is the reality if you make investment decisions based on the metrics you are prioritizing. 

The zoning is less permissive but the neighborhood has become increasingly popular to both renters and buyers.