Fix or lower rent

[DG H.]

I've wondered what would be cost effective in a working class blue collar rental when someone moves?...Fix all of the *little things* all bright and shiny hoping to get $525 or just clean and rent at a lower rent like $475.00.
I would love to have the extra $50.00 per month but whether they have a years lease and security deposit..they break the lease and the security deposit isn't anywhere close to paying for the "wear & tear" = damage.
Frankly I spend a lot of time and money making everything shiny and they just tear it up.
I run credit checks, call employers, past landlords and tenants just don't take care of my property.
I'm getting really tired of spending money on something they will tear up.
Any advice or ideas?
Thanks to all.

[Jeffrey K.]

What kind of "little things" are we talking about? Once they new tenant moves in at the lower price they will probably call you and tell you those things are broken. It is part of this business and it sucks, but I think you have to do it the right way the first time.