But it starts with baby steps.For me, it was: cancelling the cable, stop eating out, go on dates that didn’t involve money, cancelling the monthly subscriptions/memberships, working out at home, make coffee at home, quitting cigarettes, etc.

The only evidence I have is cigarettes and cigar tips left in the yard and carport.

In all fairness to K MArie Poe great post writer on the original thread.the original couple that went ga ga over the shower head ended up having to break their lease after 10 months they could no longer afford the rent. they did provide fair warning and did their best to clean up the apartment.and were understanding when I did not return their security deposit.Moreover, they were never a day late with their rent.they left the place rather stinky due to a rotten potato in the cabinet which went unnoticedand I spent 3 weeks cleaning the place to get rid of the stinky weed and cigarette smell.the other first tenant was a nightmarehe paid on time and was clean but did he complain about every single little thing.since those renters moved outI have had no problems from the subsequent tenantsThe difference was that the second tenants moved into a place withall the appliances in place. including dishwasherOverall I think I will always strive to offer more for the same dime. whenever possible.fyiand the no vacancy piece I think is a testament to the business model

What are your thoughts on outdoor smokers?

Just a heads up if your tenants are smokers here's the evap coil on a new furnace & it's condition after 6 months.

Your place may be in worse shape, but I've had success in the past mitigating heavy cigarette/marijuana smoke in rentals I manage with an ozone machine.

Smokers over-occupying your property with multiple animals will be bad tenants, sec8 or not. 

I would show up and just get out of the truck and start walking the property.. clietns would either sit there or follow. now this was when more folks smoked so smokers did not follow as much8. our land in N.

The upper unit is fine, but the lower unit…former smoker lived there.

Have a set pre-screening message ready to go for interested parties (ex. 3 x rent in income, great credit, no pets, no smokers, etc.), and make sure you keep it the same throughout so you don't expose yourself to any problems with fair housing.