As others say, make it crystal clear in your listing that the "shells may cut a dog's paws, and we don't allow pets." 

OTRCH operates a couple of what I call "wet rehab" centers meaning congregate housing for persons otherwise homeless and there are several other agencies like "First Step House" etc. that might be interested in a presence in this block.Or you could cut your losses and put it back on the market under the "greater fool theory."  

This company charges 15% on top of any maintenance requests in addition to their normal fees but all I need to do is approve the estimates - they do all the work/communication with the contractors.Recently my PM sent me a few maintenance requests: a $1400 to fix some plumbing in a bathroom (clogged and leaking - contractor says they need to cut the pipes, reroute and replace some plumbing, recaulk.

suggest you find a different attorney firm to work with...they'll take a cut, but worth it.

Do not cut corners.

I can see when they're cleaning the pool, cutting the grass, servicing the HVAC unit outside, etc.

You might make less, but you cut a lot of costs, make the 1031 exchange easy and maybe worthwhile. 

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

The seller can pay for it at closing (the title agent will cut the check to the trade to ensure there is no resulting lien) and provide proof of the replacement to the insurance provider.  

I haven’t closed my first deal yet, but I’m laser-focused on getting in the game and becoming ‘the guy’ people call when deals come up.