In a chapter 13 there are usually 2 schedules of creditors, secured and non-secured. 

Here is what we are doing...Re key home to make new tenant keysClean up and shape the landscaping and trim tree in rear of homeRepair exterior wood - Repaint all exterior siding and trim.Repair gate / fence leading into backyardReplace all kitchen cabinets with new cabinets - Paint white, then antiqueNew st steel stove, dishwasher, and vent a hoodNew countertops (kitchen)New wood laminate flooring in 2 living areas and hallway - 1st floorNew tile floor in downstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in downstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surroundNew brushed nickel light fixtures and fans throughout the homeNew carpet and pad on stairs and upstairs hall and bedroomsNew tile floor in upstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in upstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surround upstairs bathReplace old / damaged sheetrock where needed (mostly downstairs)Repaint all ceilings throughout homeRepaint all doors and trim throughout the homeRemove all wallpaper and paint all walls standard neutral colorsReplace all interior and exterior doorknobs and looks to new brushed nickel look to match lights and fansReplace all cabinet pulls and knobs with brushed nickel to match door knobs and lights/fansLicenced plumber to repair and service all plumbing fixtures / pipes to ensure no leaksLicensed HVAC technician coming to service and clean the heat and air to ensure it is working property."

We are frugal immigrants with some savings that we want to use for securing our future.

Your time here will be well spent.You mentioned an interest in wholesaling as well as buy and hold, so I added a couple links for your reading pleasure.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

Hey everyone, I wanted to know if any landlords see value in having a home security system on a rental property?

You must take risks, but, ensure that they are calculated risks.Below are some links to get you started. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/rules https://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

The transaction is exactly like buying a rental property with a tenant and not like a mortgage or deed of trust transaction which are sold as standalong instruments with their secured notes.

Regarding Ice melt, preorder it and store securely (in dry spot) on-site for contractor to save on costs.

Take a secured loan against a vehicle that is paid off.

If I put a piece of say 2X3 over the tiled wall, from one end of the sink to the other end, covering the damaged tiles, secured with perhaps recessed Tapcon screws.