However, we knew we needed to hamper down and get the ball rolling.

I'll update with what it looked like after I fired the contractor and as we get rocking and rolling with a legit contractor.

They are also planning to push the requirement to finished basement spaces in addition to unfinished spaces. 

The path to success is non-linear and you will need a strong mindset to push through to the part where you experience rapid growthGood luck and don't forget about me when you are worth $50m!

OR, I'd find a deal and calculate it but it would push my DTI so high that it might put me on the investing sidelines for the next few years.

Take the total rent roll - the unit you are living in and subtract all of the expenses.  

@Mark Caragio, I think @Ashish Acharya's analysis almost feels like bad news to you as it might push you over that $500K limit - what a nice problem to have. :)If you do go over that $500K limit and if you want to also defer recapture of the depreciation you can always combine a 1031 exchange with the 121 exemption. 

We do what @Abel Sanchez said in our SOLO401Ks that were rolled over from regular 401Ks and IRAs.

What is the intended average rent or monthly rent roll?

I’ve read the tax advantages are great but would it be recommended to get an accountant when tax season rolls around or try doing them myself.