@Russell Brazil - The point is the law is too kind to the tenants and harsh to the landlords.

Call it harsh, but it's true. 

I know this is harsh, but I challenge you to look at your circumstances from a different perspective.

@Dave Rav I know it doesn't help now and it sounds a bit harsh, but these are definitely questions I would make sure you have answers to before telling the tenant you won't be waiving any late fees.

I'm not trying to be harsh so don't read it as such...haha.Happy Housing,Matt

The 2% rule properties are harsh in Baltimore as well as most places. 

Ohio is a state losing population and winters can be harsh and challenging for real estate investors, especially those residing in CA.  

This might sound harsh but as I stated if it is a superb deal, one you can't pass up, I would take this route.

Was it the fact that the houses looked cheap compared to CA prices or were there other reasons.As other posters have said, you will need to be firm when dealing with contractors and if they sense you being a newbie.I hate being harsh on all the points above, but I also hate to see people lose money on their first project and then think that real estate investing doesn't work. 

Seattle is insane and harsh when it comes to real estate (among other things ;-).