I'm getting concerned because I know from all my BP reading/learning that expected PM rates vary from 5%-10%, so I was preparing to pay on the upper end of that to make sure I find a "Rock Star" PM (as BP books would emphasize doing).

Very much like the moon and stars need to be in perfect alignment, but it does happen from time to time. 

If you find an absolute rockstar agent they may be able to help you look in other areas but you are going to be better contacting an agent in each area that you are looking.

@Sam BoothTrim trees (don't cut down), flowers or plants along walk way, paint door, river rock or some stone where bushes are, Dark mulch around tree, plant grass, drink a beer and call it a day.That said, I have no idea about the ARV in the neighborhood so that could be too much work...or too little.

If you pick a bad tenant in any state, it's going to be a pain to evict them and when you do, they can always put rocks down your toilet or cement.

Don't get hung up on the initial cost – focus on value, and you'll be on your way to building a rock-solid real estate portfolio.Let's Chat!

I have a small background in construction -- I used to do small jobs like tear up carpet or help cut or demolish sheet rock for my local church -- so I'd like to try serving as my own general contractor.

Rock solid advice 

This time it's the tub that's rocking in the master bathroom on the second floor.

You can usually make money in rental homes in just about any decent-sized city in the Southeast: Birmingham, Alabama; Little Rock, Arkansas; Jackson, Mississippi; Atlanta, I could go on.