I have recently become financially conscious after getting myself out of a mental stalemate caused by what felt like unmanageable student debt.

The de minimis safe harbor rules (deducting tangible property costing $2,500 or less, $5,000 or less with an applicable financial statement) don't make a distinction between units being currently rented or under renovation as far as I know.

Anyone who can actually help you with useful advice, is probably financially well off, meaning their time is very valuable. 

Since I've started down the path to financial freedom, I have began to look at money differently .I've become more aware of the flow of money, and how it can be used as a tool to achieve my ultimate goal - and also the goal of many here - financial freedom.I have learned that when I buy a $5 sandwich, I haven't just exchanged $5 for a sandwich.

There is a BP podcast about a lady in denver who built a portfolio of condos in Denver due to the high cost of entry (https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2016/07/14/bp-podcast-183achieving-financial-independence-rental-properties-sarah-pritchett/) . 

The new casino is already in financial trouble and will (IMO) fail within the next few years.

@Alex Price, sure my investing goal right now is simply to maximize cashflow and reach financial independence.

Demonstrated enthusiasm for real estate with a high degree of creativity, vision, and technical aptitudeHigh level of communication/critical thinking abilityInternship or work experience in real estate or finance industry preferredWork well in a team based environment with open communicationAbility to analyze financial statementssome of the other things asked to analyze financial statements.I have started reading but plan on taking principles of accounting for a short 3-week summer course for credibility. 

We don't always get along or agree, bit we respect each other.This is a long way of saying that instead of looking for a contractor who has the skills and the financial backing you might put a greater emphasis on someone who you can trust, respect, agree to disagree, etc.As for the listing, it sounds pretty easy -- especially in this market.  

The reality is they do it because they are either lazy investors or simply prefer to ware financial blinders.