In fact the last one we were in, we updated her house with modern paint colors & fixed a few things & she was able to rent it in a week at a higher price when we moved out.

Yes, you should expect that the bank will do all they can to limit thier losses and grab every penny they can, they are lenders, not landlords.Keep in mind too, the tenants could be kicked out after foreclosure in a commercial property and the bank has no interest on who might be in there if push comes to shove.

While these issues are not directly be a requirement on Mike, having his partner get in trouble won't look good in the public eye and the RE commission may go through past transactions with a fine tooth comb, something you don't need.

Lowe's has a free account "MY LOWE'S"  to help you track products by property (paint color, filters, etc..)

What is that interior paint color in the kitchen?

Maybe I'm getting long in the tooth, but I don't know where everyone is finding such plethora of great deals that they are happy to just take a little bit of the pie, when they can take the whole pie.  

Assuming you are like me and want to live in a decent neighborhood, it won't be easy to find, some sacrifices will be made, but I still see light at the end of the tunnel as you may too! The

Agreed Bill - getting on the board is a great idea, however I've been over their financials with a fine tooth comb and I honestly have no issues with the way they are currently running things.  

3) Last one, when picking out cabinets/fixtures/carpet/flooring/paint colors do you just provide all this information to the contractors?

Despite what most people think, painting a room in dark colors (dark grays are so hot now) actually makes a room look larger and more homey when paired with the right staging.