Hi guys, I'm a property manager of a small portfolio of new construction townhomes. All of the homes are brand new with new appliances and we've had a few ice makers stop working right outside of the warranty window i...

You, potentially, aren't paying the 10% management fee, and 10-20% markup on all maintenance requests.  

@Kamryn DeVaultTo invest in a duplex, consider factors like neighborhood quality, economic stability, safety, property condition, cash flow potential, financing options, tenant screening, lease agreements, future potential, legal and zoning considerations, maintenance and management, networking, and starting small and scaling.

Do you perform regular preventative maintenance to avoid emergencies or are you more reactive?

I am a handyman with a lot of experience in residential and commercial maintenance, so I would like to be close to my first investments so I could take care of the management and repairs myself.

@Yixiong Panin our opinion, it depends on the Property Class/Tenant.Class A: most people can DIY manage and learn what they need to know on the fly.Class B: A bit harder, takes more time and there's more risk with maintenance and tenants.Class C: should only be attempted by EXPERIENCED landlords!

One of the options that I was recommended is having one of your tenants as the manager and maintenance guy for all other properties I own.Anyone experienced with such a concept?

Meanwhile, your expenses, like debt service, taxes, insurance, and maintenance, continue.Once you choose an investment city that meets all the above requirements, select a tenant segment with the right income behaviors.

Do you frequently require subcontract and vendor engagement (lawn care, snow removal, building maintenance, management company etc.) and if so, do you sign contracts and require that you are listed  as additional insured on their insurance policies? 

In addition you need to budget for maintenance/repair, capital expenses, and also to cover the vacancy/turnover the next time a tenant leaves you.