Yes, window treatments are a common one for tenants to break.

If the latter, depending on the jurisdiction, YOU may need to be a licensed real estate agent/broker to engage in what’s commonly called “wholesaling” but is actually “flipping”. 

I began to see through everything, but because of my kind nature (that has since been changed) I felt obligated to continue trusting him, that it was a mistake.. that it would get better.

It seemed that just having some kind of communication back to the resident right away was better than them leaving a voicemail.

So the major issues in a house are a foundation issue or a structural issue, the next tier down would be a mechanical issue like Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, then roof - which isn;t an issue a new roof is very common in a fix n flip, and then the outside facade: Brick repair, driveway repair, brick pointing. 

I'm more concerned about appreciation and equity so I'm willing to trade the cash flow for it, but I don't want to be in a situation where I'm barely breaking even and the stress that comes with it.Looking for ideas how I can tap into that equity to grow my portfolio but still getting some kind of cash flow to be able to make the monthly payments1.

In my experience, a property with multiple cottages and outbuildings can provide all kinds of creative strategies...some folks try short-term rentals or even specialized retreats if local regulations allow.

Yes, this is an angry kind of post.

Most of the methods are for advanced investors and not nearly as common or easy as portrayed by YouTube gurus selling courses for a living.

Understanding your market, what you are offering, and the kind of tenant you can expect to attract and KEEP will help you determine how to screen.