Are there any alternative strategies you’d recommend for someone in my position—new investor, newly licensed agent, and focused on getting that first deal within 12 months?

While the IRS does not mandate a physical site visit, the IRS cost segregation audit technique guide (ATG) does suggest conducting “field inspections.”It’s important to note that the ATG is not an official IRS document.It serves as a guide and cannot be used, cited, or relied upon as an authoritative source.However, the recommendations in the ATG are worth considering.According to the guide: “A field inspection is recommended to document the physical details of the building, type of construction, materials used for construction, the assets contained in the building, the size and types of building systems, and any land improvements that were included in the purchase of the property and the condition of that property at the time of purchase.”‍So while the IRS does not require a site visit for cost segregation studies, following the guidance from the cost segregation audit technique guide can be beneficial.At RE Cost Seg, we’ve adopted a modern approach that goes beyond these recommendations, utilizing video walkthroughs to provide a thorough, efficient, and documented inspection process.This ensures that every detail is captured, giving our clients confidence in the accuracy and quality of their cost segregation studies from us.

With steel prices climbing, developers are facing significantly higher material costs, especially for multifamily and affordable housing projects that rely on steel for structural components. 

It’s not lending or seller financing — it’s more of a cooperative funding strategy that I think might resonate with long-term investors or those looking for alternatives to traditional mortgages.🎯 My goal is to learn from creative investors here, connect with others exploring similar ideas, and eventually test the waters with a small group.

This setup can still offer several advantages without violating your loan terms.How It Works:The LLC manages the short-term rental activity—booking guests, collecting rent, and paying expenses—while you retain personal ownership of the home.The LLC doesn't change who owns the property but creates a clear separation of business and personal activities, which helps for liability and taxes.Tax Implications:Income still flows through to your personal tax return, but now you can deduct all ordinary and necessary business expenses (cleaning, maintenance, software fees, insurance, etc.) more clearly.If you materially participate (e.g., meet the 100-hour rule and no one else spends more time than you), you may qualify for the STR loophole, which means:Losses from the property, including depreciation, can offset your W-2 or active income, not just passive.You may be eligible to accelerate depreciation with a cost segregation study and take bonus depreciation—which is a major tax shield in the year the property is placed in service.Additional Tips:Use a separate business bank account under the LLC.Track all property-related expenses carefully—these can include mortgage interest, utilities, supplies, property taxes, and repairs.Make sure to classify the STR activity correctly on your tax return (typically on Schedule C if you're materially participating).Consider filing an election to be treated as an S-Corp for your LLC if your Airbnb becomes highly profitable—it could reduce self-employment taxes on your earnings.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

The day that I got the material, I started listening to the audio book.  

Also, any advice on where I can purchase the materials (carpet / vinyl / paint for the interior / kitchen cabinets / bathroom tub and screen door) needed for the renovations at a lower price then what I can get from regular DIY stores?

Had quotes for $20,000 not including materials. 

@Brandon Morgan @Kerlous Tadres there aren't as many north jersey meetups as there used to be as many investors are sitting on the sidelines, looking at alternative investments or have left the area.

I see a lot of roofing and siding simply due to the materials i work in, so that roadmap seems doable to me.