I've replaced all plumbing (freeze damage) and completely renovated one of the apartments.

The zoning is now a very workable issue if you do it right thank to some (sigh) more government regulations on Fair Housing.

What kind of pitfalls should I look out for, for the greater Seattle area (I'm mostly looking at the north Bothell, Everett, Lynwood areas), and specifically in terms of laws and regulations that could catch me off guard?

function of the soil... its just not anything the folks that sell these homes talk about.. why would they same with RE agents.. however if you take trip there and drive around and look at vintage homes that are 99% of your rental targets you will see the brick work in the corners separating or filler in it.. sometimes its just a few grand.. but other times its a major issue.. as your plumbing is in concrete foundations..

You can always upgrade single items later if you feel you need to, you can't really downgrade...Also, have a plumber install your plumbing if you're worried about flooding...plumbing and electrical are risky to DIY.

That inspection was to Certify it passes regulations/building code for Owner Occupancy.

Size:  Above Ground 1,660 sq ft/ Unfinished Basement 350 sq ftI'm looking to update below items:Exterior: New roof and window (as needed)Yard: Cut big 2-3 trees in the backyard, clean front yardInteriorBasement needs mold remediationNew kitchen (cabinet, appliances, & etc)New Bathroom (2.5)Move/remove walls Add ceiling wallAdd insulationelectrical work (if needed)plumbing (as needed)new paintNew floorIt pretty mush needs a complete renovation.

Size: Above Ground 1,660 sq ft/ Unfinished Basement 350 sq ftI'm looking to update below items: Exterior: New roof and window (as needed)Yard: Cut big 2-3 trees in the backyard, clean front yardInterior Basement needs mold remediationNew kitchen (cabinet, appliances, & etc)New Bathroom (2.5)Move/remove walls Add ceiling wallAdd insulationelectrical work (if needed)plumbing (as needed)new paintNew floorIt pretty mush needs a complete renovation.

I don't know about your area but in Ca theres a law called the implied warrenty of habitability in short it says that in order for you to collect rent that the rental must have running water, the ability to produce hot water plumbing trash bins pest free, electrical service heat source and so forth.

As such, we are looking for help in building a team of trustworthy, licensed/insured contractors that can assist us in roofing repairs, plumbing (fixing leaks), repairing plaster ceiling, along with a slew of smaller issues.