As you can see, many of the equity kickers did not materialize.20% projected IRR at iFunding realized 10%13% projected IRR at iFunding realized 13%18% projected IRR at iFunding realized 14%20% projected IRR at iFunding realized 16%20% projected IRR at RealtyShares realized 0%20% projected IRR at RealtyShares realized 13%20% projected IRR at RealtyShares realized 15%17% projected IRR at RealtyShares realized 12%15% projected IRR at RealtyShares realized 3%13% projected IRR at Fundrise realized 13%By Platform iFunding 13.7% IRR, Fundrise averages a 13% IRR, , and Realty Shares 9.2% IRR.Equity InvestmentsSix equity deals have gone full cycle and overall, they have outperformed.

If possible purchase the materials yourself and just use the contractor for the labor.  

The more of the following you are able to provide, the higher a price you can request:Inspection report by licensed inspector, legitimate sold comps within 0.1 mile range, roof warranty from licensed roofer, permits for the work performed, disclosure of how much electric/plumbing/HVAC was replaced, warranty for the heater (if new) or disclosure of what service was performed, age of windows and grade of windows (if new), warranty on appliances (if new), last service on appliances (if used), grade/brand/color/installation date of cosmetic materials (flooring, paint, etc.), etc.If tenant in place: strong lease terms, proof of payment history, screening criteria including personality screen, security deposit & last month rent held, annual lease term, etc.  

You get 45 cents on a dollar.As for renovation, I doubt the cost of materials and labor are lower in Alaska than in CA. 4 brm, 2 bath, two kitchen will run over $50K here.

Alternately, if you are in a hot market, have no money, aren't willing to work your tail off, have no skills to add any real value, etc. then you should have no reasonable expectation of making any return at all, and if you do then it is probably coming via ill gotten ways.Wasn't there a Led Zeplin song with lyrics something like "...and he's buying an escalator to heaven"  Jay? 

Very good group, useful material.

Alternate link

I just attended Brokers continued education in Charlotte,NC on the topic of "real estate as an investment " and couldn't believe how simplistic the material was.

To replace a 220 volt well pump , labor and materials is around $ 1500 , pressure tank and switch around $ 700 .  

If they don't have access to these materials they can send you to who does.