More time consuming, but then no problems down the road.

But it's difficult and time consuming, and despite David Greene's book, I do think it's difficult for a brand new investor to BRRRR in Ohio or Alabama from California =)

So going in person would be too expensive and time-consuming. 

Once you see that a company offers such a guarantee, check the Better Business Bureau to see whether consumers complain that the company hasn’t followed through on that promise.Expectations should vary based on the duration of the programs as well.

For example:General-Filters (furnace, air conditioning, oven exhaust, refrigerator, and water)-Stove burner when the “eye” needs simple replacement-Batteries and remotes that service the premises-Fan and light pull strings-Smoke and carbon alarms testing and batteries-Ensuring appliances are properly plugged in, hooked up, and used-Removing dirt, debris, and lint in and from connection pipes (e.g. clothes dryer)-Tighten loose screws on all home functions (e.g. doors, hinges, handles, socket -Balancing off-balance appliances-Cable, internet, and phone jacks-Fire extinguishers-Systems operation (e.g. security, irrigation, HVAC)HVAC-Monthly A/C filter and drain line maintenance Electrical-Reset “tripped” GFI breakers-Light bulbs (throughout and at the end of the tenancy)-Blown fuses-Reset breakers in the outside and inside breaker boxes-Socket and plug outlet coversPlumbing-Unclog drains or toilets-Caulking around tubs and showers as needed-Gas pilot lighting-Leaky faucets and shower heads-Toilet flappers, handles, seats and seat lids, tank lid, and flush kit-Sink and tub stoppers-If septic tank present, use RID-X as directed on consumer box-Proper cleaning of garbage disposal-Loose faucets and sprayer heads and hoses-Faucet filters (i.e. aerator)-Open exterior plumbing clean out when necessary (e.g. sewage backup)Exterior-Routine lawn (and pool) maintenance-Adjusting sprinkler heads as necessary-On the last month of tenancy, tenant must perform required lawn maintenance no sooner than 2 days prior to vacate dateThere’s a lot to consider as a landlord.

Consumer confidence is still strong.

You might get lucky.I'm dealing with my own issues right now as I have a 5 plex that is not nob and tube but is screw in fuses and the insurance company (auto owners) threw a fit and demand the fuse boxes all be replaced with breakers or they will drop me.I'm right down to the wire and they have issued a do not renew order until fixed because it has taken 7 months to get all the paperwork and consumers on board with the update.I have a really good electrician coming in two weeks now that he finally has his permits, parts and pieces, electrical company ready for the work to be done.The electrician warned that he was only doing this because he was friends with my PM.

You can succeed in both markets if you make smart decisions and perform the work necessary.Good luckTwo things:1 - Rents usually go up, if the property is bought correctly, when there is a recession due to fewer owners and more renters.2 - Property values go down, in large amounts, when there is that same recession. 

Often getting fewer, larger cabinets is better than more smaller ones (eg 2 30 inch cabinets instead of 3 20 inch ones).

My wife and I reached financial independence with fewer properties than we expected and a backstop of after tax index funds.