Document issues with photos and invoices, provide an itemized deduction list, and return the remaining deposit promptly to comply with Texas law.

Adding to this, I worked at a large commercial contractor for 3 years so I may be able to help with the subcontractor invoice question!

Each party should keep all their invoices, receipts, credit cards statements, etc. to substantiate the amount one claims, for reimbursement, when the HUD-1 is drafted, for the backend closing, by the Title Company.

I'd love it if the emails could be taken into Baselane, and automatically update the invoices. 

There are two main methods, and the seller must choose one (whichever is more favorable):Option 1: 25% of the Gross Sale PriceThis is simple:No deductions, no calculationsPay 25% flat on the total sale valueCommon for foreigners without an RFC or residency✅ Pros: Straightforward❌ Cons: No credit for improvements, taxes, or purchase priceOption 2: 35% on Net Gain (after deductions)If you have the right documentation, you can deduct:Original purchase price (from notarized deed)Notary and closing feesOfficial improvements (with SAT-registered invoices)Acquisition taxCapital improvements (not repairs)Inflation adjustment (based on years of ownership)✅ Pros: You can drastically reduce your taxable amount❌ Cons: You must have RFC, residency, and detailed receipts💡 Pro tip: This is where your notary and accountant work together to calculate the best scenario.🧠 Legal Ways to Reduce Capital Gains Tax1. 🏡 Primary Residence ExemptionIf the property is your principal residence and you have Mexican residency + RFC + utility bills in your name, you may be exempt on gains up to ~700,000 USD (subject to exchange rate and rules).Only one exemption per person every 3 years.2. 🔄 Reinvesting in Mexican PropertyThere’s a limited provision for deferring capital gains tax if the proceeds are reinvested in another property in Mexico, but it requires professional tax guidance.3. 🧾 Documenting ImprovementsIf you remodel, expand, or modernize the property, you can deduct those expenses — but only if the invoices are:In your nameInclude your RFCIssued by a registered contractor or architectPaid through traceable methods (bank transfer, no cash)📊 Example:Let’s say you bought a condo in Playa del Carmen in 2020 for $200,000 USD.

She appears so dang cool and friendly on the podcast, but my feelings were genuinely hurt on multiple occasions in the FB group by the coaches responses to my honest questions. 

@Drew Sygit you are right I didn't pay the realtor directly, I received and payed the invoice from the broker. 

Great job @Devin Dang!

Dang…so much for DSTs being “safe” investments almost by default/shattered that illusion…

Invoice the guest for any overages monthly.