I had a case where it looked like the umbrella policy could get used but 1) ended up Not being needed 2) was vehicle related, not RE related.Our Son’s girlfriend was driving one of our vehicles and got into an accident.  

Being a normal person and giving someone a heads up has not bit me, yet.In addition to what the law requires, I always shoot the tenant a heads up either via text, call, or email.If they are mostly responding to email, then shoot them an email.Emojis and gifs work wonders in today's day in age.

I use a schedule E and do not have an LLC or business name, so can I purchase the vehicle under my personal name and take section 179?

My wife and I have overhauled our personal budget to reflect the 'pay yourself first' approach (allocate in order: income comes in -> invest -> donate -> fixed expenses -> variable expenses -> fun $$).We are looking to see what experienced people generally recommend for a holding tank for that 'invest' allocation while we target our first real estate deal.What financial vehicles have you guys used that works well for this?

I would not buy a new vehicle just to get a write off - Only if you planned to get a new car anyway(I.E. if your old car is worn out).A lot of people are focused on deducitons but not focused on the income coming in / out.Best of luck!

The crash caused significant structural damage, and the driver fled the scene, later reporting the vehicle stolen.

Maybe you are needing a new vehicle for your real estate business - they can help ensure this vehicle is on the list that qualifies.

To throw a wrench into things, if we were talking about real property/structures that were being short term rented, it's possible/likely that your depreciation period would be 39 years, not 27.5.However, a vehicle - which is what an RV is, regardless of how you're using it - is 5 year property.

Unkempt lawns, trashy or broken down vehicles, mattresses and trash on empty lots, boarded up houses, bars on windows, dealers and hookers on the corners, the lack of stores or gas stations, occupied properties are dilapidated, etc.Or when Google maps shows stuff like this:

So, it is something to be wary of with the liklihood of choppy financial waters ahead. 4.