And landlords cannot deduct the value of their own labor, where a pro painter's cost will be.

I've received conflicting info from a few different CPAs, I'm curious if anyone knows what is actually deductible on the rehab side of a brrr?

Without the sacrifices you all make, we wouldn't be able to do what we do.If I had VA eligibility in my pocket, I would hold it for a truly great property.

My wife and I currently make about 175k/ year before taxes and other deductions.

Also can you deduct cleaning expenses (dirty bathrooms, showers, appliances, not wear and tear)?

Obviously pricing will range on many factors, but we are getting quoted 9k a year with a 1k deductible which I think very high.

You could also lose other deductions.

By the side, I attain an agent license and be enroll under the very same broker and if the company does well, apply for my own broker license in 2-3 years as I become eligible and hence remove the broker from my company (just a thought).

If the property is bought and sold in the same year, it ends up being deducted. 

If you sell property you held for rental purposes, you can deduct the ordinary and necessary expenses for managing, conserving, or maintaining the property until it is sold.