Simple question: Can I pay my wife to clean a rental property instead of hiring a cleaning company and claim it as a tax deduction, or is that unethical/illegal?

So I would still remove any carpet in bathrooms but only deep clean dirty carpet (if possible) and just make sure the kitchen baths are functional.  

A guy called me for a price to clean up and clear a yard at one of his rentals .  

The "angel" tenant is a single dad who is a handy man and seems like a great guy who keeps his property clean and in good shape.  

If there is an electrical issue, you can test it with a multimeter, or remedy a cleaning issue that is blocking gas flow.

It is NOT fancy/upscale, just safe, clean & attractive.

@Russell Brazil  definitely regionalized... in my two markets were I build new construction Charleston SC and Portland Oregon.. long gone is the no money down buyer.. they still happen I just sold one in Charleston on a VA loan but its a 350k house. and we get the occasional FHA but on the subdivision I just built in Portland in 2016  27 new homes priced from 330 to 400k... ( entry level )  to first time move up.My wife is my broker ( always recommend anyone getting in the business to have their own license) I had her run a report on financing and what was used.4 sold for cash1 VA3  FHA minimum down19 sold conventinal with 10% or more down.IN charleston other than the one VA loan same thing some cash a few FHA majority conventionalso to speak to your points we have a much stronger buying segment than pre 08.. and I am sorry for those that have crappy credit and can't buy right now.. but they simply need to clean up their act. this attitude that every american deserves to own a home is flawed thinking.. every american who can manage thier personal credit and keep good an stable jobs.. deserves a home if they so choose.. 

If the TK company and the PM company is the same, then I would make a clean break.

I bought a used fridge from a new appliance retailer as a cleaned out takeaway from a new appliance delivery for $200 (DC metro area) and am happy with my decision.

He ended up taking money from clients and I spent about $250,000 out of pocket cleaning up the mess.I have the fortune to have made millions of dollars and have always been action oriented and willing to test out new partnerships.