Hi Jared, I’m a local agent here in Indianapolis and also an investor myself.

Return:Finishing the basement and adding bedrooms can add significant value, especially if your local market places a premium on additional living space.

You can find a lot of meetings on the MAREI calendar, both MAREI's meetings, local landlord group meetings and a few other meetings hosted by our members. 

We are fortunate to take on a lot of doors from local PMCs who drop the ball, and invariably, poor communication is near the top of the list for complaints. 

Like @Michael Baum said check on the laws first. 

Being close enough to hospitals and also the University is a good strategy, but would be happy to give you some more info on the local areas here.

@Emma Whear I might suggest you talk to a local real estate attorney (or another owner of a similar property) to make sure you prepare yourself if/when the City's blind eye starts being able to see ;-)

When identifying and working with a property manager long distance, quality and local presence matter most.

The laws protect vs detract the operations.

You might consider: Consulting a Real Estate Attorney – Your emails may possibly prove misrepresentation.Requesting Public Records – A FOIA request might reveal why the city denied you but later approved the duplex.Escalating to City Officials – Bringing this to local officials could expose inconsistencies.Exploring Tax Write-Offs – A CPA might help offset your financial loss, if it is possible.I’d definitely seek legal advice.