You can also have the funding and then not get the property under contract and then you have to reapply for the loan, ping your credit....not the best way.Both options work, it depends on you as an investor and what you feel comfortable doing.  

For exmaple, a total kitchen rehab can cost you 25-30k, depending on finishes and how you want it to look.

It depends on what work is being done, who is doing it and who is the client.What exactly is your role in the process. 

It depends on your process and the state laws.

You might not owe that much tax because the gain will always be taxed as long term capital gain in the inherited property, and Depending on your tax bracket, you might own 0% tax or max of 20%.You need to ask your aunt what is her basis was and ask if any work was done to house to minimize your gain. 

My engineer charges me between $750 and $1,250 depending on the scope.

@Joey Newton I agree that it depends on the area. 

It's kind of like comparing apples to oranges, each loan is different depending on the terms, what matters is what works best for you.

The actual management of the property does not take up a significant amount of time (depending on the quality of tenant and property- I would suggest both being good to great) but leasing the property does take special skills that are better "contracted out."

If you've owned your home longer than two years and are paying mortgage insurance, it may be a good time to either refi out of mortgage insurance or, depending on the type of loan you have, call your loan servicer and ask that it be removed.