My take: Gather intel on the area (neighborhoods, tenant demand, property management), have a game plan for your numbers (cash flow, maintenance reserves), and adapt as you go.

Give it, then take it away in hopes of increasing demand.  

I only figured out after Baselane sent me a stern email demanding the refunded money from me, else they will pursue legal actions such as collections and even putting a lien on the property.

Land doesn’t depreciate, and while buildings require maintenance, they usually gain value as markets grow, demand increases, and inflation takes its toll.Real estate investors benefit from a significant tax write-off based on the concept that properties lose value over time, even as their market value skyrockets.

Yes, up, it's simple obvious supply demand metrics. 

I want to point out that I’ve noticed his tone in emails can come across as demanding or even a bit rude.For examplez: I see how he writes to the group—always polite and full of "thank you"s—but when addressing me, the tone feels far more demanding.Would it be okay to respond with something like this?"

Business issues or simply too high of a rent demand for the space provided?

The economy is also pretty diverse and strong - lots of growth in population and the job market and there is strong rental demand.

Section 8 demand in Cleveland is through the roof, but unfortunately they don't actually pay that amount. 

However, she was highly demanding and I didn’t appreciate her negotiation method by intimidation.