Construction DetailsWhat to ConsiderWhy It MattersChoose a Reputable BuilderExperience, transparency, and communication are critical for avoiding delays.Foundation TypeSlab, crawlspace, or basement—each has pros/cons depending on climate and soil.Quality MaterialsAvoid cheap finishes that won’t last; choose energy efficient materials that are sustainable and cut down on the need for high utility bills like solar, insulation, dual pane windows, and cool life paint &shingles to name a few, & prioritize structure and insulation.Change Order ProcessKnow how design changes during construction will be handled and priced.Legal & PermitsWhat to ConsiderWhy It MattersZoning & PermitsMust comply with city/county laws — delays or fines if skipped.Survey & Soil TestPrevents issues with drainage, foundation, or property boundaries.InspectionsEnsure every phase meets code (foundation, framing, plumbing, etc.).Energy Efficiency & SystemsWhat to ConsiderWhy It MattersHVAC & InsulationImpacts comfort, energy bills, and home longevity.Solar ReadinessPre-wire now for future panels or battery storage.Smart Home WiringPlan low-voltage runs (security, sound, data) while walls are open.Plumbing Layout & EfficiencyTankless water heaters, loop systems, and fixture placement save money long-term.Interior & FinishesWhat to ConsiderWhy It MattersFlooring DurabilityMatch material to room traffic and moisture levels (e.g., tile for wet areas).Easy MaintenanceChoose surfaces and layouts that clean easily (no white grout floors!).

@Audrey Sommer****I am not an attorney and always suggest consulting with one for legal mattes***** Below is what we use, I believe they are actually from the Bigger Pockets State specific leases that are available to pro members for free.L) The Premises has been equipped with ___ hard wired / ___ battery powered smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

Replace batteries in CO/Smoke if necessary 20.

Electronic Lifts- disconnect the battery if leavingfor long term storage.K.

There have been a couple times I was convinced we were getting less than 5 stars (a couple dog hairs found on a bedsheet or a tv remote with a dead battery) but we ended up getting 5 stars and I think it was all those little touches that added up to something greater than the mistake.  

You could always replace if that were the case but why not invest in a Blink battery-powered WIFI outdoor camera mounted slightly above your door?

I personally lean towards Z-Wave locks because their batteries last a LOT longer that what we've seen on any of the Wi-Fi connected locks (Z-Wave is low-power, Wi-Fi is not).I'd think it would be location-specific: at our lake house we want guests to be able to lock the home if they go out on the lake, but then not have to go around to the front to get back in (we actually have 4 exterior doors with smart locks at this home).

I never have to chase people down for rent, and the annual inspections are practical and easy.This year (this month, actually) ... install CO detector and upgrade all of the smoke detectors to 10-year-permanent-battery models

I swapped all my smoke detectors out with wired ones with a 10 year lithium battery.  

Also would it make since to just try and get a loan to add some moduler units to it all at once or should we scale it and start with the renovations and get it cash flowing first?