Great question - figuring out ARV can definitely be tricky, especially when you’re trying to prioritize projects and see what will move the needle most.There are some general rules of thumb (like Ricardo mentioned), but ARV really comes down to your local market and recent comparable sales.

She went in-depth to talk about maximizing rent and correcting all the safety issues that were mentioned in the inspection report.

These loans have been a good fit for investors focused on portfolio growth since approval is based on the property’s cash flow rather than personal income.The loan type has to match to  client’s goals as some prioritize cash flow and flexibility with DSCR, while others start with conventional for better rates before transitioning.

For your own safety and to convince a lender, don’t buy this property until you can clearly explain why.

Rule of thumb: if life-safety, code, or permits are involved, hire the contractor; if it’s cosmetics to get rent-ready fast, a reliable handyman is fine.

To be honest, property managers are likely going to prioritize their clients with more properties, but you should be able to get a hold of someone within a reasonable time frame.A couple of questions for you: 1) Where is your property located in Ohio? 

Starting with a duplex is how a lot of investors build wealth — you live in one side, let the other help pay the mortgage, and still keep a safety cushion from your savings.

It seems to me to be a flawed safety net for new people. 

I don't know what professionals to prioritize engaging and how much I should be paying.

Your goal drives the move: if you want near‑term freedom, prioritize reliable cash flow; if you’re targeting scale, use stabilized NOI to refi and buy the next asset.