.- Taxes on your current gain are deferred until the end of 2026. 

Well, most "handymen" in my experience are barely handy at all.

Hey @Josh BallI wish my experience was as good as yours.

You could still end up stuck with the property after you complete renovations. 

Just make sure it’s with someone experienced — or you’ll end up “partnering” on lessons, not profits.Seller financing or sub2 deals: In slower markets, 10–15K can be enough to cover arrears, closing costs, and a small seller down payment.

In the end it will you who will suffer.

When more people speak up, it’s harder for the HOA or property manager to ignore.If you do end up going the 1031 route later on, hopefully you’ll land a property in a neighborhood with more consistent enforcement and support.

Suddenly, my leverage was gone, and I had to bring more cash to the table than I’d planned.That experience taught me two things:The appraisal can shift the financial landscape of your deal overnight.A higher-than-expected appraisal can give you instant equity and better loan terms.

The experience gave me the confidence I needed.

I did end up working with them so I will respond in more detail a bit later. dothe math in a 3k sq foot house - that 18/SQ is pretty spendy, then another 60k on top of that.