Houses that had servants - even just a maid - simple things like cooking involved a lot of smoke and noise, none of which you wanted around guests.

In Ohio there's no rent control, and in Toledo it's pretty simple: you don't pay your rent, you don't stay in your property.

For example:General-Filters (furnace, air conditioning, oven exhaust, refrigerator, and water)-Stove burner when the “eye” needs simple replacement-Batteries and remotes that service the premises-Fan and light pull strings-Smoke and carbon alarms testing and batteries-Ensuring appliances are properly plugged in, hooked up, and used-Removing dirt, debris, and lint in and from connection pipes (e.g. clothes dryer)-Tighten loose screws on all home functions (e.g. doors, hinges, handles, socket -Balancing off-balance appliances-Cable, internet, and phone jacks-Fire extinguishers-Systems operation (e.g. security, irrigation, HVAC)HVAC-Monthly A/C filter and drain line maintenance Electrical-Reset “tripped” GFI breakers-Light bulbs (throughout and at the end of the tenancy)-Blown fuses-Reset breakers in the outside and inside breaker boxes-Socket and plug outlet coversPlumbing-Unclog drains or toilets-Caulking around tubs and showers as needed-Gas pilot lighting-Leaky faucets and shower heads-Toilet flappers, handles, seats and seat lids, tank lid, and flush kit-Sink and tub stoppers-If septic tank present, use RID-X as directed on consumer box-Proper cleaning of garbage disposal-Loose faucets and sprayer heads and hoses-Faucet filters (i.e. aerator)-Open exterior plumbing clean out when necessary (e.g. sewage backup)Exterior-Routine lawn (and pool) maintenance-Adjusting sprinkler heads as necessary-On the last month of tenancy, tenant must perform required lawn maintenance no sooner than 2 days prior to vacate dateThere’s a lot to consider as a landlord.

If they want to sell now or in six months, you need to know before giving them an offer so you don't lose leverage by giving them an offer now instead of closer to when they are ready to finalize.Since you are already going to the property, take good pictures and make sure you capture the electrical panel, HVAC labels, and plumbing material.

Don't over complicate it, keep it simple, reverse engineer it into it's pieces.

That simple.

@Dave Ivery Lots of simple but powerful advice given already.

It's so simple, anyone can pull it off, and many of my clients are first time investors employing the exact same strategy.I think you already have it pretty much figured out, but I might suggest incorporating some kind of creative housing in the mix to increase revenue, like STR/MTR or renting by the bedroom.

The key is buying properties significantly below market value, keeping costs low through self-management and maintenance skills, and taking a long-term view to build wealth through forced appreciation and equity capture over time.

Aim for simple words and keep sentences short and varied, using very common words when you can.