A second, and less labor-intensive reason was that having ceilings that matched walls and trim make the space feel cheaper, and even though our rental isn't in an A neighborhood, we want to give our renters a feel that they're renting the nicest place in a neighborhood. 

You're in the right place to learn about real estate investing. 

They will want to walk through the place and may change their offer based on their personal inspection. 5.

Insurance company now refuses to share their part of the cost.

I’m going to try to stay high level, but I will also share a lot of details so that you know the full picture.Two years ago, I decided to shift my strategy from cash flow to appreciation.

I got the place at $175k and I'm currently at $158k and my apr is at 3.25% with a mortgage of $976 per month.

Thanks for sharing this case study. 

A lot to ask for but if you know anyone that's even close to these numbers please share.

Instead of resolving the issue, he’s threatening to place a lien on my property unless I pay him.I want to understand how does this lien work and this one example, I have such few examples with handyman, plumbers etc  they always keep threatening if you don't pay us we will put lien on your property. 

I have spent a lot of time in the area and I would echo what several previous replies said - Garfield park is a great place to invest you have the right team who knows the area.