We are wondering how we could best maximize our return on the property- either by partnering with a developer to eventually share returns or hiring a developer/general contractor/house builder ourselves and managing the project ourselves. 

@Reuben Stewart Thanks for sharing your experience Reuben, and congrats on your success.

Thanks for sharing!

I'm wondering if any landlords in Portland, OR can share the screening criteria they currently use.

Likely finishing the process before anyone else has the chance to even see the original data source, giving your the first mover advantage.There is a lot of hype around AI and I have seen my fair share of BS.

As previously mentioned, legally you certainly have done more than your due diligence addressing these concerns of your tenant. 

There are lockable thermostats for commercial use, but I can't see that working in a rental.I think the main issue will always be that any thermostat that you can set a minimum temperature in will always be susceptible to this fail safe failing, due to the possibility the tenant could change it on purpose or on accident.I'd hope in a 4 plex as long as there is no building defect to the thermal envelope that it would be difficult for one units pipes to freeze as long as the other units were occupied, seeing as they share some common walls/ceilings.

In other words, if you have use of the space, it isn't considered rental space (even when it's also shared by a renter).  

I understand that as one acquires more types of assets, taxes can become more complex, and I want to ensure I'm maximizing my savings.Are there any CPAs in this community who also own real estate and could offer guidance or share their experiences in navigating taxes as a real estate investor?

I have some question and concerns about the title company.