This way the GC can easily bid out each part of the job, and get me a bid much more quickly than if he has to consolidate based on my "room to room" list of things to do.I'll then have my GC give me a labor bid broken down into the following components:- Permits- Demo/Dumpster- Foundation- Roof Framing- Roof Felt/Shingles- Siding- Gutters/Soffits/Fascia- Decks/Porches- Landscaping- Doors- Windows- Wall Framing/Sheetrock- Electrical Rough- Electrical Final- Plumbing Rough- Plumbing Final- HVAC Rough- HVAC Final- Kitchen Cabinets/Countertops- Bathroom Cabinets- Bathroom Fixtures- Interior Paint- Exterior Paint- Carpet- Hardwood- Tile- Vinyl- OtherOther could consist of anything from install mini-blinds to replacing outlet covers to installing appliances.This generally gives me (and the GC) enough detail that the job can be accurately estimated, and if things change (or surprises are found), we can adjust individual areas accordingly.This also gives me a good idea how much each of his subs will be making, allowing me to figure out what his profit margins will be -- giving me some negotiating help if needed.If your contractors have an issue with filling this out, try telling them, "My lender is requiring me to break it down this way in order to approve the loan."

I don't know about the "coming back to haunt you" comment, but I do agree investors should consult with a knwoeldgable CPA on this topic.Depreciation recapture can come into play, but there are several factors to consider such as: You are receiving tax savings today and then repaying with tomorrows dollar (and we all know the dollar will be worth less tomorrow than today), if your current marginal tax rate is at 28%, then the recapture tax rate of 25% is slightly less, and if the gain derived from the building is less than the depreciation taken, you may only recapture some and not all of the tax.

So far, it seems the TARP funds are being used to clean up banks balance sheets and to buy other banks, and the feds are getting a bunch of marginal or bad debt.

In 2005 I started telling my members to decrease their debt load, unload marginal properties while the prices were approaching the peak and improve their cash position.

I am not saying that is a bad thing as you SHOULD be paid for your services, only to point out your opinionated statement does not come without bias.Alfred,If you are not "too hot" on retirement or tax deferred vehicles, you need to get hot as they are one of the greatest strategies/advantages to planning for retirement.I would NOT suggest you pull the cash out with your 20 month deferred plan as you will not only pay the marginal tax rate on the withdrawl, but you will also get hit with an additional 10% penalty.That said, you will basically end up with only 1/2 of your funds after taxes and penalties.I would strongly urge you to reconsider that course of action and educate yourself more on the subject, both right here on BP and any other sources such as books, news articles, programs, etc.If you are self-employed, I believe the solo 401k and now, the 401(a) plan to be a great choice over the SDI.For those you are not self employed, the SDI is a great feature, much more beneficial than IRA accounts managed by others who ONLY care about how many fees and commissions they can earn from you, regardless of the fact that you make or lose money.There are several legal and moral strategies to use qualified plan funds and benefit yourself outside of the plan all while benefiting the plan at the same time.

With this house i dont think it would make much sense to fix it sense the profit of margin is very small. however it would be a good learning experience , yet a risk.

Low income rentals require more hands-on management, but they also have better profit margins.

I have considered margin loan, but frankly the interest rate doesn't make it all that attractive long term.

I also think the fact that you have clarity on what you are after here increases the likelihood of success by a substantial margin. 

Majority of the auction properties here in my area are bought by the bank.The few that sell to investors are at high prices with very little profit margin.