I have 15 years experience as a Project Manager building Multi- Family projects anywhere from 9 unit town homes, 200 mid rise projects, to 400 unit Garden Style developments on previously undeveloped land.

I figure I would fix up the units a little cosmetically in between tenants, but I don;t know that the area calls for a whole lot to be done. 

However, due to Prop 10 and peak purchase prices, I am considering to diversify to other areas and style of investments.

*t hits the fan" back up plan.

And the caps on a cottage style roof, and not sliding off with a 18' drop.

CAM $1750 month T/I $2500 month.

OK, that shoots 3 to 6% of the deal right away, but for a first time, it might be worth it to make sure most of the T's are dotted and the eye's crossed.Or, go without.

Older style mixes with some added sand works best.Outside of that, if you really needed to, you could replace sections with cement block or poured cement.As long as the walls are true and not leaning or bulging, then it's just a matter of maintenance on the mortar from time to time.

It tells the tenant when the rent is late and how much the late fee is.It provides for rules on pets and guests and not running a business out of your property.I have the "5 day notice" in my lease so that I don;t have to send them one if they are late so that I can immediately file an eviction once they are late if I choose to.I could go on, but I think you get the point.

I have never been a fan of butcher block, but realize its coming back in style so am leaning that way.