These exact steps were not highlighted in another post.

Except as provided ….. and in§ 1.263(a)-1(f) (providing a de minimis safe harbor election), a taxpayer must capitalize amounts paid to acquire or produce a unit of real or personal property”See that highlighted exception, you can take de minimis safe harbor election.Work performed prior to placing the property in service.

I came away with a chunk of change, the respect of family and their potential business, and a couple extra grey hairs.The highlights of this experience?

They do a good job highlighting info about short term rentals.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/pros-cons-airbnb/

Once i had several leases in my hands i just sat down and started with the lengthiest one and went through the others and highlighted any item that the other leases didn't have in the first one. 

@Ethan Anderson Thanks for highlighting the key words several times.

I've had contractors cut corners, but it was more like attention to detail rather than anything dangerous.My husband and I did some of our own work on our personal home (which will one day be a rental home), and a few highlights of some WINS!

A recent podcast highlighted how much information can be obtained from public records.

I know you get it...I'm highlighting here because it's the headline.

I find some will not help their kids with collage thinking the child should pay for it themselves.. myself that was one of my highlights paying for my kids collage and setting them upon the world with no debt after school..