The home was originally built with four units but the city said there wasn't enough parking (so each 5bd unit basically has it's own connected 1bd mother-in-law apartment with kitchen and everything).Here are a list of my concerns: 1) Deferred maintenance  (a lot of vinyl flooring in bad condition, original roof may need to be replaced in the next 5 years, etc...).  2) Fewer units make vacancies, or a bad tenant causing damage very costly. 3) I don't have the cash for the down - I either need to find a partner or sell or refinance an existing property.To address some of these concerns: 1) I have a handyman I've used for years who could hammer these things out on a schedule that I could afford.  2) I've never had an issue keeping my unit occupied (I've even had the same tenants in one unit for over 6 years).  3) I've never partnered, but I'm willing to do so now if I can find the right person.Please share your advice!  

Most of you old timers should know what I mean.

The living area and kitchen are the same open area so I guess it'll need to be a satin paint?

The washing machines are in the kitchen so the tenants put the hose to have the water drain down the kitchen sink, which is a disaster waiting to happen.

The living room is opposite sides of house from kitchen.

There were beds, clothes, the kitchen cabinets were full, toys,  It was as though they just walked out.The fun part came on Saturday though when I met the old owner.  

Connecting one to the other AND avoiding including a kitchen of any form is looked upon (by the city) as an expansion of the home.As Office Space, avoid any bedroom and it can easily qualify (IRS) as dedicated office space.

Kitchens should be done in line with the character of the house so your standard big box kitchen is out of character.  

You can have an active role in the businesses' management (in fact, you have to), and you can take a salary from the business as well.It's an alternative to a typical SDI that has some amazing benefits for full time real estate investors...

You like the neighborhood, the building has decent curb appeal and the interior has nice kitchen/bathroom that will not drive people away, right?