Would be nice to know if there are legal and ethical ways to shift the responsibility to the tenant.

I used to be outwork everyone and a good work ethic is admirable but taken to extreme's it can be unhealthy and unbalanced.

hi Nathan - I'm researching the concepts of "ethical property investment" (geared toward smaller scale investors / landlords) and I saw this post of yours from LONG ago ... would you be willing to share what you ended up doing and the outcome for the homeowner?

How can I do both and be ethical?

I would also consider getting your own lawyer too as your current real estate lawyer, if he continues representing the venture, is ethically committed to representing the venture and not to you personally. 

(It's not even the money that's the bother, it's the ethics)            Can anyone recommend an alternative management company in Raleigh that I should consider?

I am not an agent but I am an ethical businessman.  

Ethically, I want to turn around and invest money into private loans for other people in my position as soon as I can afford to, it's a big passion for my own investing.

I'd then create a post on BiggerPockets saying where you are from and that you're looking for advice on how to find an ethical mentor in your area.

Hi David,You have proven to be successful in your current job and just carry the same work ethic in being an agent.