The news of the FED tapering bond purchases is a big reason for this.

We used to give tenants the option of signing up for lawn service for an additional cost - cheaper than they could get it on their own - or cutting their own grass.

But like I said, you're going to refi prior so it definitely wouldn't get that full $40k+ but who knows what the fed will do with rates in this economy.

However, they have received multiple forms of rental assistance from the city/state/feds.

Rates will not move up fast, you have to remember when the FEDS raise interest rates they also raise the rate on governments debts.

You could simply stop and door knock on every house you drive past that has tall grass, missing shingles, or broken gutters. 

My thought is to write your representatives about this if you agree with it.Ultimately this is an indication that the Feds do not have any qualms about changing the terms of any tax advantaged account.

That seems to be just outside the Fed timeline of keeping rates low.

It sounds like in this case, the tenants are just fed-up with miscommunication.

Hey Will,As a PM in the area:-have a lawyer look over your lease-make sure EVERYTHING is in your lease (who replaces air filters, who replaces smoke detectors batteries, who cuts grass)-be thorough with background inspections-make sure tenant is aware (and is in lease) on when fines occur for late rent and how much they areThose are things that first come to mind.In can be expensive and time consuming to set it all up the first time and do it in a way that protects yourself and your investment.Let me know if I can help in any way!