In my opinion, some of the ultra modern condos on beach finished right after the housing crisis have more potential in appreciation as many of them are currently selling way below the construction costs.

@Logan Zanki your goal is realistic and attainable.

Had to replace a few things like light bulbs, some trim around the basement door. there is a finished room in the basement, I am doing some painting in there and it should be ready to hit the rental market.

I grew up in the 5 cities area, and lived in SLO for quite a while when I was enjoying the central coast life, then went to Cuesta before finishing up in Finance & Econ at SFSU and buying up here in the Bay area.

Has anyone used a "Performance Clause" with their contractor, whereby there is an incentive for finishing early and disincentive for finishing the repairs later than specified on the contract?

The next morning I finished up with the one guy for the last 5 hours.

They're most likely to look at hard numbers, give conservative estimates, and put me more where I need to be.I like to talk to Realtors a little later in the process, once I have a pretty solid idea of a ballpark - this serves as both a 'secondary check' and a good time to discuss the level of finishes that are appropriate for the neighborhood.I also would bring the same realtor BACK in at the end, so they can give an accurate pricing point at the end of the day.If I knew a good appraiser, I would bring them in after I was already about 80% sure I was going to be involved the project (likely in the due diligence period).

I would be cautious of improving a real estate asset while the divorce is being finished, unless you can have your lawyer talk to your "soon to be ex's" lawyer, and place this asset, even though you don't own it yet, outside the bounds of the marriage assets.

Also, the level of finishes will be likely be higher for owner occupant verses rental, so decide that up front.

I'm looking at 3 bed, 1 bath, garage, finished basement, a/c, brick homes at around $40k that will get $900.