I would like to make sure the siding is presentable before paying for an appraisal.

Either the tenant or landlord can pay for the tenant screening.

Quote from @Jordan Townes: so why are you people that already sunk 40k into this not paying a little more a getting a  lawyer? 

For now, my immediate goal is to pay off all of my credit card debt (should be accomplished by February 1.), and continue to educate myself on NOI, Cap rate, cash-on -cash return etc.BP community, I am open-minded, willing to take initiative, always willing to be taught something new, but also ready to share any experience or knowledge I have that can help someone else. 

At two classes per, it lasts for a year or two.

I’ve had people who signed up for 6 months and stayed 5+ years, paying increasing rental rates.

Yes, you can go visit Class C & D tenants at their homes to convince them to sign up for auto-pay, but:1) Once you leave they will revert2) Their biggest problem is NSFs! 

Homebuyers will always pay more than a REIT type investor.  

If it were me, I would pay her her half of the equity and do a refinance.

My community is safe, and yard signs are a great way to advertise my business.