Do a quick search of "newburgh ny crime", in 2015 it made the top 10 most dangerous cities in America...looks like it's improved a bit since then.  

The first option with duct work seems more expensive and intrusive to occupied units.Unfortunately there is no natural gas available nearby to tap into, which is of course my favorite way to heat.Any thoughts or advice in this area would be appreciated.Also curious to know if anyone is familiar with federal or state (we are in MD) tax breaks or incentives for improving efficiency of a building, or converting from oil heat. 

I budget 10% for vacancy and 20% for maintenance/capital improvements.  

Your position on this item will be stronger if your lease has language regarding making unapproved repairs or improvements.2)  I think you fill those holes with mortar and move on. 

My husband and I started out with about two years of stalking the forums here on BP and listening to the podcast...it was a huge source of education for us and gave the confidence we needed to close our first deal. 

I’ve been attempting to deal with this for the past several years and can’t seem to develop a strategy that I’m confident with.

You can then be more confident in knowing that the steps you are taking are ultimately in an area that you enjoy and can envision personal fulfillment in.

The education I received through the podcast was invaluable in giving me the knowledge and confidence to do the first deal.

I’ve made substantial improvements to the property (flooring, texture, interior and exterior paint, total bathroom remodel, painted cabinets, new carpet, crown and base, new doors).

There are a lot of moving parts to successfully purchase the land, get entitlements, put in horizontal improvements, put in vertical improvements, get leases negotiated and in place etc.