However, it looks like to the left it connects to another room (maybe the living or dining room) if so, I would see if it was load bearing and maybe take down that wall and make it a little more open, probably put an island where that is.For the outside, it mostly looks like it needs a new paint job, fresh grass, and some pressure washing. 

I've bought most of my rentals utilizing vendor carry back financing (for a zero down option)Utilize Your Network: Use your connections for off-market deals and creative financing.

In San Diego over the last 10 years I have had average rent growth on some years of $700 (source core logic) and I believe every year has been over $100.Virtually all MLS properties in my market bleed cash.  

Short-term rentals here in Colorado and everywhere have gone professional in the last few years.

Connect with Jacksonville Wealth Builders. 

The cheapest permit I can think of that we've gotten in the last 4 years was $140 or so... in bigger cities (like Atlanta), you won't be getting a permit for less than ~$500 and hours of dealing with the bureaucracy.IMO, a contractor charging $500 to pull a permit is more than reasonable.

Look at your depreciation schedule on your taxes from last year.

(I also would put areas of east Dayton I would put in that same category.)As far as Old North Dayton goes, I've spent a fair amount of time in this area over the last few months (including after my last comment in this post), and I certainly wouldn't lump it in with most of the west side.

What motivated you to sell the last investment? 

Areas are tough because enrollment is down and they have built several large new 200+ unit complexes in the last few years.