Since this was my first primary residence, I didn't consider the cash-flow potential, however it was a top-floor, water view condo with it's own private roof-top deck, so I felt it had intrinsic value.

Furnished units are going to have extra costs of cleaning, repairing and replacing furniture.

You typically get clean title with any short sale.

(PS - I am not the listing agent)Floor LevelSq Ft.RoomsBedroomsBathroomsMaster BathSec DepositRentLease ExpUnit #11938531/101100M2MUnit #21770421/00800M2MUnit #31770421/01000100011/19Unit #41770421/01000100002/20

You said counting every single doorknob would annoy them, but do you at least get it itemized into how much for electrical, plumbing, framing, drywall, floors, foundation, etc.I still think I'm going to get a quantity takeoff at least when I'm just starting out with a new GC even just for the sake of letting them know that I'm not completely ignorant on the topic (and thus easy for them to lie to).I can tell them exactly how many CY of concrete will be needed for the foundation and footings and I know that it costs about $130/CY.

What do you guys generally use for floors, counters, paint colors, etc... 

The quick, easy and top dollar belong to updated, clean properties in good repair that are tidy and furnished tastefully and available for move in in 30-45 days.

There is still a lot of new construction going on around us, and the home has appreciated about 20k in value since purchase (comparing to cost of building the same floor plan).

I bought a fixer duplex moved in and cleaned it up then bought another moved into it and kept the first and rented it then cleaned up the 2nd moved in and then bought a fixer condo moved in and kept the second plex as a rental.

I'm planning to redo the kitchen and all the flooring.