I figure if I start out with a low maintenance property, I can lower the learning curve and decrease the stress of managing a business and rental property myself to allow me time to figure things out as I go along. 

I used a faucet as an example because that is an item that normally breaks down first and often observe customers walking down the fixture aisle at HD or Lowes looking for the least expensive option, whereas purchasing inexpensive tile or other cosmetic items won't necessarily cause maintenance issues although I would argue will cost you revenue (more on this below). 

The platform also lets our tenants report maintenance issues, and see their rental account payment history at any time.  

We had already been planning to do some maintenance and repairs (repave driveway, re-insulate attic, replace two broken faucets, other minor items), but were wondering if, for tax reasons, we are better off waiting until we close on the new home and this is no longer our primary.Can this work count toward tax deductions as preparatory work on rental property, even if it's currently our primary?

Looking to off-load maintenance requests by hiring companies, just wondering if anyone have experienced with the companies I mentioned above?

Also Dave's, Start With Strategy was really cohesive and really helped me understand what questions to ask even after I had already bought a few properties.As far as condo/townhouse I would say watch the HOA and make sure you know how much, any deferred maintenance and any rules.

When doing your calculations - be sure to include principle, interest, property taxes (what your new ones will be - not what the current ones are - because after 1 year they reset to what you paid on the property), property insurance, and a maintenance reserve (we use $100/door/month on maintenance).  

I am considering them for my SFR rentals for which I've done no water heater maintenance.

Talk about how good the schools are, how close to the beaches or other attractions, Size/type of kitchen, ease of maintenance of swimming pool if in place or jet powered swim lane, Covered parking if so, etc. 

Is there an inspection of some sort or do I need to ask the condo association for maintenance records?