One that I'm getting close (hopefully) to the end of, was a flip that was a public nuisance property with two lots on either side full of junk (like 10 dumpsters worth..)There was great opportunity with the house, but we bought the other lots as well and cleaned them up (as no one would ever buy the house with those lots filled with junk). 

That + reading Start with Strategy and filling out the accompanying workbook to help me actually visualize and write down my goals with a plan has really helped me a lot! 

Some towns require a nightly online form to be filled out for any non-residents who are parking their cars (this is easily automated from an operational standpoint).As the MTR market becomes saturated over time, those who have separated themselves from the rest of the "competition" will continue to perform well by having an outstanding listing and all the MTR-specific amenities.

For example, I imagine in a market like Detroit, a neighborhood, at-large, may be filled with mostly Class A properties (in comparison to the rest of the surrounding suburb and/or city); but, I would think that the quality of these properties can be further subdivided within themselves too.

People need to remember that not everyone is filling in a spreadsheet with the most stringent numbers, there are lifestyle advantages to be considered as well.

I know some landlord's show up with something for them to sign or fill out that they previously (on purpose) forgot to give them, but you could also just be upfront and say a visit is part of your screening process - you check the condition of the rooms to see how the unit is being taken care of.

In smaller/tourist locations the best places fill up fast and knowing you need a reservation is huge.

@Gash Nookala,Renting can indeed be slower in winter, but here are some tips to boost interest:Enhance Listing: Ensure your listing has detailed descriptions and high-quality photos—consider professional photography if needed.Competitive Pricing: Double-check local comps; even a slight price adjustment or incentives (like a reduced deposit) could attract more interest.Broaden Marketing: Beyond Zillow, Hemlane, and MLS, use social media, community boards, and local business connections to reach a wider audience.Flexible Lease Terms: Offering shorter or month-to-month leases might appeal to tenants during this slower season.Local Property Manager: A local pro can tap into their network and help fill the vacancy faster.These steps should help you find a tenant despite the seasonal slowdown.

In other words, if you don't fill your unit in the slow season because you're afraid it will cut into your high season revenue, will the high season revenue more than cover the difference?

Good tenants can significantly reduce vacancy rates, turnover costs, and maintenance expenses.Many property managers I know are quick to fill vacancies, often asking, "Do they meet the minimum requirements?"