For example, lets say a home is 100kIn order to buy it for 70% arv, and lets say it needs 20k in improvements, I would have to try and but it for 50k ?

Self-managing definitely improves your cash-flow.

I simply thought I'd make some improvements to the units, raise rents, and collect income each month.

Usually these homes will be in bad shape and someone who is handy that can do the improvement will benefit and get more of a return when selling.

I'm thinking about doing a lease option with this person, and trying to help him improve his score.

More so if the lender takes the time to improve the properties before selling them.

There are no capital gains taxes on real estate and all aquistions and improvements are tax deductable.

Our next step is to study sales and market trends of improved (developed or built-on) properties in a selected area.

It increases your taxes and does nothing to improve your asset protection.

she wanted her option money, all her rent credit and $$ for improvements (planting a couple outdoor plants which suddenly became expensive) since she wasn't buying the property.Long story short, it goes to court and the judge rules in her favor.