A Realtor friend brought them to me (who brought all their clients to me I believe) so there was more incentive to get involved in making something happen.What I had were several issues. 1. the borrower had little money on hand but income. 2. they wanted to do the work, this couldn't be allowed as they were not in construction and their skills could not be shown. 3. had a buyer in line, but not as is, it had to be brought up to market. 4. the owner had limited equity, perhaps 15% based on the as is value.So, first was to make a future advance note, similar to a HELOC or construction loan as a second mortgage.Had to look at repairs and improvements needed and at what point each "phase" would be completed and increasing value.I had a contractor and got him involved.

I have considered getting the place appraised before making improvements but have speculated due to the fact that the bank is going to make me pay for an appraisal when I do a cash out refinance.

I want to improve my email marketing method of sending new deals to my clients.

I will be doing around 7000 $ in "repairs" and "improvements" as well as other associated costs.

Is there any improvements you can do on the property where you can get 2/1 or better on your money?

Ran a handyman/home improvement business in Louisiana for 1 year. 4.

My preference would be to replace the carpets and leave everything else "as is" until the rents pay for improvements but that could be a newbie mistake.

My most successful formula is to buy discounted/distressed properties and add value through improvements.

The difference in what the appraisal is and what the cost to build is can justify the beginning value of the incomplete improvement.

My debt eliminator self wants to pay off the loans so I don't have to think about them anymore and to improve our personal financial situation.