If the tenants are staying usually the only initial repairs/renovations we do while they’re still in the unit is to upgrade the smokes/CO detectors to hard wired and anything else that turned up as a life-safety issue in the inspection.

Well, it worked, but only because it was already a smoking deal and I was just trying to shake a few more pennies from the cushion - otherwise, I would have walked and had my agent tell them to sell it to the other offer ;)On the plus side, I now know how this particular agency operates, and I will avoid their listings in the future.

Hard wired smoke detectors are usually required in remodel too.One caution on adding egress windows is they can become water traps.

Does it have to be a "smoking deal"?!?

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.

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.

The microscopic distance of the attic vent, insulation spacing, the smoke detectors not being in sync when 1 rings etc. 

I think he's blowing smoke, but he gave me permission to follow up with him in the future to see if he has decided to sell.Some responses to your various input: I did some heavy duty networking and made a new investor friend who has flipped houses and his day job is kitchen cabinetry.

Now in our timber deals with that demographic it could take months and a lot of fresh and smoked salmon and if it was elk season some fresh steaks and jerky would win the day.. this is the PNW of course :)  I also got a lot of timber deals by advertising on the Christian radio station..

We have a duplex in Florida which had heavy smoke residue in it.