While down there, have someone flush the toilet.

On the one hand, most tenants aren't necessarily flush with cash so having to buy appliances upfront or later replace a unit might be a serious hardship.

Lead will leak into the pipes, so flushing out the water from the faucet before using it should minimize the risk to lead exposure.   

I think the general public has a perception that rental property owners are largely a bunch of wealthy fat cats flush with cash who can weather any economic storm, and if landlords still demand rent at times like these it's only because they're greedy. 

@Benjamin Herrmann,As the others have suggested, you need to contact a legal professional to get advice on the tax situation in your mother-in-law's area.Get some info first - don't just flush money down the drain.David J Dachtera"Success is not a destination.

Again, just flushing out some ideas.

“Does the toilet flush when I flush it?

Versus places like Ohio, Indiana, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia are all half the price/half the taxes and flush with 2-4 units.

Also, I believe flushing water heaters to get more life out of them is myth. 

For those of us that want to invest in good neighborhoods for instance Forest Hills, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Flushing, Dyker Hights, Marian Park, Park Slop, they are all expensive area.