At the same time we did exterior improvements to the driveways, siding and pool that's improved curb appeal.

Can I do the mortgage amount higher than the purchase price in order to escrow money for home improvements on the property? 

Understanding the market - bought it under valued - came in with additional capital to improve units that desperately needed updating.

But starting out and it being something I enjoy and a skill I want to improve and a possible way to save money on certain jobs/not wait weeks and weeks for contractors, it's fun stuff haha. 

In the situtation you describd, IRS does not tax the acquisition cost nor cost of improvements you have made, just your true profit.

What is your strategy for improving a property?

NEIGHBORHOOD, AREA AND PROPERTY CONDITIONS: Neighborhood or area conditions, including Agricultural Use Restrictions pursuant to the Williamson Act (Government Code §§51200-51295), Right To Farm Laws (Civil Code §3482.5 and §3482.6),schools, proximity and adequacy of law enforcement, crime statistics, the proximity of registered felons or offenders, fire protection, other government services, availability, adequacy and cost of any speed-wired, wireless internet connections or other telecommunications or other technology services and installations, proximity to commercial, industrial or agricultural activities, existing and proposed transportation, construction and development that may affect noise, view, or traffic, airport noise, noise or odor from any source, abandoned mining operations on the Property, wild and domestic animals, other nuisances, hazards, or circumstances, protected species, wetland properties, botanical diseases, historic or other governmentally protected sites or improvements, cemeteries, facilities and condition of common areas of common interest subdivisions, and possible lack of compliance with any governing documents or Homeowners' Association requirements, conditions and influences of significance to certain cultures and/or religions, and personal needs,requirements and preferences of Buyer.Things I'd suggest including is investigation of services and feasibility of connection to public services specifically.

Hey all,I'm currently rehabbing a split level house that has a 16' x 8' deck in the front of the house.The deck is built about 4 feet from the ground and leads to the front door.I had my landscaper remove a ton of ove...

I spent the last year doing major utilities and security improvements with my own funding, and now am in need of about $120,000 to have a reputable contractor complete this fix and flip.

Is it considered standard to include all closing costs, capital outlays (for repairs, improvements, etc), and loan origination fees in addition to the sales price when calculating cap rates?