Upon "googling" I see where some folks include Debit Cards as not having to send 1099's, but I want to be certain.A lot of contractors lump their labor and materials together.

They allow you to include up to 6 months of rent payments in the loan if you are unable to occupy the premises during the renovation.Just to be complete, it's also worth mentioning that both the VA and USDA have renovation loans.

However, I noticed that as a Costco member, they also offer HVAC services, including the same product line (Lennox), along with a 10% Costco Shop Card if you go through them.Has anyone here used Costco for their HVAC needs?

I'm sure many here, including myself, would be happy to discuss potential opportunities with you.

This included modernizing the kitchen with high-end appliances, upgrading bathrooms with spa-like features, and adding hardwood floors for a luxury feel Lessons learned?

I think 1) 10 years that includes recovery from GFC and the Covid pandemic is not a long enough duration2) I think for those 10 years, 100% is not that special3) I think many Midwest markets did not experience the appreciation you depict.There are Midwest markets that have pretty good long term appreciation but there are also many Midwest markets that have appreciation that has not historically kept up with inflation.  

Of course - having a w-2 job will never prevent you from setting up an IRA including a self-directed IRA.If yes, how can I fund it?

Examples include replacing a deck or renovating a kitchen.

This is a common theme across the country with many municipalities enacting similar restrictions including where I am located in Philadelphia. 

I have spreadsheets filled with material lists for every phase of the build that includes pricing for materials as well as labor, and sources that I use for them.