But he chose to do it in this sneaky way instead, thereby losing my trust.Last week he also held a big family party with a lot of yelling and noise that caused a disturbance in the neighborhood (a neighbor called me to complain).

But frankly, I find your tone and hubris regarding this matter disturbing.

It is quiet and does not disturb tenants3. lawn looks better and healthier (supposedly)4. if i schedule it to mow at night, it will (hopefully) keep deer awayCons:1. this thing will require monthly service - just basic cleaning and blade replacement (those are very cheap)2. risk of theft is low where I am, plus I'll add it to the property insurance, so this is a minor "con"3. myself (or someone else) needs to get it out of the basement in the spring and put it away in the autumn.I wonder if anyone already uses them and can share their mileage.

I have an "animal" addendum that outlines the rules for pets and service animals regarding being under control, not disturbing the neighbors, cleaning up after it immediately, etc.

The problem arises if they are disturbed; this happens when renovating and removing walls etc.

Last night there was a disturbance in the upper unit and the police were called at 3am.

do you have insurance or your tenant has insurance that can cover the unpaid rent(some commercial insurance allow you to file for disturbance of business)  

In all circumstances, complaints that the occupants of the short-term rental has created unreasonable or unlawful noise or disturbances in violation of Chapter 95 of the Municipal Code or the provisions of this chapter or is engaging in disorderly conduct, requires an in-person response by the local contact person.I do agree that Indio is a saturated STR market however you just need to make sure to do your "due diligence". 

If it's trespassing, theft and disturbing the peace it may not be an ideal neighborhood, but may still be good for investing.

You can hack a hole in the wall from the backside and change out the faucet with minimal disturbance of expensive hard to match tile.