This type of tenant rarely calls the police on a landlord, and the police have better things to do.Providing a basic, sanitary, safe roof over their head, with heat, and a place to cook for a reasonable price, is not being a slumlord.  

Another food for thought is that if you do your own work and something goes wrong, your insurance might not cover it.

Many of the most successful spirit-salespeople have used this method as it works well when done right.Get some funky looking person, even a starving actor for $50 and free food at the event, to be the 'property manager' and say strange, funny phrases to the reporters.  

@Carey Cook Welcome. 

They wanted to make a partial payment because dad has Cancer & is without food. 

Cook at home, and don't be buying any steaks or lobster for the near term. :) 

If there is any smell from pets, smoking, unique cooking seasonings, we run the ozone machine for about 48 straight.   

I could keep going but this is just some food for thought, and hopefully helps you out.

After 5 years running my family foods company, I am looking to get into the real estate side of things. 

It is a personal expense, just like your food expense.2) Repairs made on the duplex are deductible against the rental income.Improvements:1) Improvements made on the personal side are added to the basis of the property, but you cannot depreciate the personal side of the property.