The right idea is going to be the bread and butter.1) Ideal location2) Quality properties over quantity of properties3) 1.25x DSCR4) Intention to hold no less than 8, but ideally 12+ years.5) Sufficient cap reserves6) Mechanisms to enhance cash flow(via alt investing or house strategies).7) Liability protection through no PG loans(if possible), LLC formation, property management and being a diligent landlord.8) Invest deeper, before wider.Now if you're talking where to invest, different information.

Now I'm not saying this is a bad thing - but it's something to consider. 

If you just hire the cheapest or first PMC you speak with and it turns into a bad experience, please don’t assume ALL PMC’s are bad and start trashing PMC’s in general.

I will be investing roughly 10k into equipment for this new gig. 

Hopefully it aint all that bad.

Honestly if the property taxes are enough to make the rentals a bad deal I’d suggest selling.

Giving the best quality of service to people is the top priority! 

Pool, pavers, screen and cage, gutters, and pool equipment. 

You might find that installing a mini-split system, properly insulating, and ensuring the finishes match the main home’s quality will make a difference in how the appraiser views it.

This video is a great start and includes a lot of sample images (good and bad).