Gas or electric would be a much better option, safety wise, from a house fire standpoint, CO danger, or danger to children or pets from the open flames. 

Those that cannot weather the storm get wiped out.Having cashflow positive properties provides a margin of safety you just do not have with negative cashflow.Why are you focused on buying in your backyard? 

Please be aware if you buy an investment property and do not live in MD, when you go to sell it you will pay an 8% tax at settlement.  If you live in the home for 2 out of the past 5 years and move out of state you ma...

My suggestions:* Requiring code compliance and safety equipment is absolutely valid and should be part of the regulations* Requiring owners live within 15 miles is not necessary since poor hosts whether they're local or distant will violate the 3-5 warning system and earn a suspension.

I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

I just bought it in the fall and am trying to complete a bunch of modifications during off-season (e.g. metal roof, certain safety features, treating the deck, possibly updating the fire pit area, etc). 

Hi Garry,To ensure your safety, it is highly recommended to visit areavibes.com and select the "See more crime data" option.

They focus on safety issues, such as wood rot, water damage, and structural integrity of balconies and decks.

Most other things are worth attempting to resolve yourself after ensuring safety and doing research.

While no formal laws say this is restricted, we are getting notices saying the request is not feasible due to XYZ concerns.