Here's the sequence we typically follow:​🏗️ Interior Rehab SequencePre-Closing PreparationScope of Work: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to identify structural issues, outdated systems, and cosmetic updates needed.Budgeting: Develop a detailed budget, including a contingency for unforeseen expenses.Permits: Obtain necessary permits to avoid delays.​DemolitionSelective Removal: Remove outdated or damaged materials while preserving elements that can be reused.Site Preparation: Ensure the site is clean and safe for the upcoming work.​Structural Repairs & FramingFoundation & Framing: Address any foundational issues and modify framing as needed for new layouts.Inspections: Schedule inspections to ensure compliance with building codes.​Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Rough-InsSystems Installation: Install or update HVAC, electrical wiring, and plumbing systems.Inspections: Conduct rough-in inspections before proceeding.​Insulation & DrywallInsulation: Install insulation to meet energy codes and improve efficiency.Drywall: Hang, tape, and finish drywall, preparing surfaces for painting.​Interior FinishesPainting: Apply primer and paint to walls and ceilings.Flooring: Install flooring materials, ensuring they are protected during subsequent work.Trim & Millwork: Add baseboards, crown molding, and other decorative elements.​Cabinetry & FixturesCabinets: Install kitchen and bathroom cabinets.Fixtures: Mount sinks, faucets, lighting fixtures, and hardware.​Appliances & Final TouchesAppliances: Install kitchen appliances and test for proper operation.Final Inspection: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to address any punch list items.​⏱️ Timeline & Efficiency TipsProject Duration: Aim for a 3–4 month timeline, adjusting based on project scope.Scheduling: Use project management tools to coordinate trades and avoid downtime.Communication: Maintain clear communication with contractors and suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and work completion.​📋 Tools & ResourcesProject Management: Utilize software like Trello or Asana to track progress and tasks.Checklists: Develop standardized checklists for each phase to ensure consistency across projects.Budget Tracking: Use spreadsheets or financial software to monitor expenses and stay within budget.​

Hell, even if you can prove this it still may not hold any weight.Get the mold remediated and fix the structure and craawl space items that are damaged. 

As soon as an item is placed into service, the lifespan of the item has started.For example if a water heater replacement is $1200 in your market and lifespan is expected to be 10 years, the water heater has maintenance/cap ex o $10/month.    2 water Heaters means $20/month.  

I'd recommend doing FOIA requests with the city and building a checklist of all important items during due diligence. 6. obviously have conservative underwriting.

In the future, this may be a good item to clearly call out responsibility in your lease, if it is not already.

Retired military and have always been extremely cautious but ready to embark in real estate in '25. 

Here's a quick list we use when advising clients:Avoid septic if possible (higher long-term maintenance)No power lines or flood zones (hurts resale/rentability)Good school district and low-crime zip codeNo HOA or landlord-unfriendly restrictionsBuilt after 1980 to minimize major capital items (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)Single-story brick homes rent well and cost less to maintainFor a deep dive, check out the BiggerPockets books “The Book on Rental Property Investing” and “Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat (BRRRR)”.

This is common, and you want to make sure you fully understand this before entering into an agreement.4.) make a good list of the deferred maintenance items.  

It allows you to "check the box" for crib/baby items. 

A very thorough inspection in the beginning is crucial to build a replacement plan for high dollar items such as the HVAC if they are aging.