Green buildings not only have lower operating costs but also offer health benefits for occupants.Renewable Energy Sources: Incorporating solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy sources can significantly reduce energy costs and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.Smart Home Technologies: From smart thermostats to energy-efficient lighting, smart home technologies help reduce a property's carbon footprint while providing convenience to occupants.Investing in the FutureInvesting in technology and sustainability is not just about being environmentally responsible; it's also a smart financial strategy.

It is either rented or it's not and when it's not it can quickly become a financial alligator.I would be surprised if a duplex in Lansing was more expensive than a single family house in Maine.As far as managing from a distance without a property manager, I would not advise it personally.

To my surprise, they provided a quote for a 23% management fee per month rent, which includes a one-year rent guarantee (regardless of whether tenants pay or not) and a maintenance credit of 2.5k per year.I must admit, I was taken aback by the figure.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

@Danae Pitcher I’m always surprised how few questions people ask when they’re getting to know us as a vacation rental manager.

More than four months rent were lost between missed rent payments and legal fees to evict the tenant.The next tenant was much better, but had frequent complaints regarding legitimate problems: -bathroom sink hot water knob that didn't work -rat urine smell coming from the vents -water leakage from the toilet(I understand that problems occur, particularly with properties of this age, but it was surprising/disappointing considering I paid Ohio Cashflow $64.9k for a property they bought for almost half the price, then, even after having done improvements, still required frequent repairs.)3) Property appreciation I bought the property for $64,900 and sold it for $48,5000.

(Not really a surprise that CA makes life a little harder)The California Franchise Tax Board will require that you file a new form every single year (Form 3840) in which you detail what you did with your sale proceeds, where they are invested, and whether you ever recognized income from your sale or any subsequent sale.  

This was a complete surprise out of left field, so I threw out a big number - close to our best case scenario flip profit to see if they would bite.

If you are surprised by a bid, talk to the winner, find out why they bid what they did. 

I didn't rip equity from her, more than she chose that option out of convenience.