If done correctly (with windows, nice stone finish material, etc), it could be an architectural asset as well.With some proper professional landscaping (maybe also cut out a planter along the side of house), and addressing the driveway issues, that should eliminate the aesthetic liabilities and give you an amazing amount of curb appeal.There are other possibilities for completely redesigning the approach to the entry (straight off the front with a right-angle landing and a gabled portico), but would involve a lot more demo-ing, building, and expense.Similar to this:http://www.houzz.com/photos/17493/Becker-Architect...

Thanks to everyone else for all replies, I very much appreciated it...Budget is up to 400k through a little boost from my dad (he wants his share though- fair :)I'd love to find something which works in Mount pleasant...

An extra bonus of the HELOC with $0 balance is that it should boost your credit score because a HELOC is listed as a revolving account and looks like a credit card account on your credit report.

We've had the "no more excuses" and "you won't get paid" conversations already.Would you kick this guy to the curb, or stick with him and hope for the best?

The rule also was meant to curb inter-family loans with no interest as a tax sheltering event or alike.

Good example of real estate investors boosting the economy and also keeping local communities thriving.

"so what that will do is boost consumer confidence for all those fence sitters waiting for real estate to devalue in their markets by some big meltdown %... and as an asset class should sale right through the trough we are in and or have entered.ALot of why construction is down is the lack of land.. keep in mind builders need 2 to 5 years to get permits. and Spec financing has not fully rebounded as well.. so lack of product lack of liquidity in the space.. 

Just use your downtime prior closing to plan the reno if applicable, figure out ideas on how enhance curb appeal, and prepare for marketing/advertising.

If my properties are continually draining their own reserves over a long period of time, then, eventually, I will end up with no cash reserves and will have to think about working a w2 once again just to pay for expenses and keep the properties afloat.At least, potentially, until the time comes when the properties are paid off (~25 years into the future) and I receive an instant boost in cash flow, around $200-$300 per property.

Cheapest way to boost NOI is to convert all 8 units to electric baseboard heat.