If it is in Portland, you'll also save about 40Kish in SDC fees with a remodel versus a new build.....so if you can get an income stream it may just be a wash in the end.

Reglazed the tub, replaced windows, removed the old concrete laundry sink and replaced it with a new one.

The most common expensive things are water damage from washing machine hose breaks and leaks, facets that fail, clogged toilets flooding, sinks backing up and things like that.

It was really great because not only was he an agent/broker, but he's also an investor. 

They wash the costs out better (such as cleaning) for higher overall gross rent To answer your actual questions: I live in the northeast, property is in the Midwest, so I use a manager who focuses on this specific area I am in.

One shower, a washing machine, no dishwasher. 

You had the vents "cleaned" but does that mean someone vacuumed them out or someone washed them?

The floor plan is a little goofy in that the laundry is upstairs because the kids make the laundry, but I fear we missed that market and more established folks don't want to go upstairs to do laundry which I get. 

The guy I hired I asked to do a laundry list of tasks which included painting the exterior.

No grease down the drain , liquid laundry detergent is best to use .