I'm living in the upper unit as it is the smaller unit and would command less in rent and currently finishing up some renovations on the bottom unit, but will soon be looking to get tenants in the bottom unit.

I do not have a very commanding presence, and while I talk sternly to tenants if required, I feel like I have no leverage in this situation because the tenants will keep ignoring me unless I "do" something, not just talk.Making matters worse is the fact that they are dirt poor, and my sympathy meter kicks in.  

I am going to visit base legal, the first shirt, and commander going forward.

Short term commands a premium if that is what the tenant requests due to the possibility of another turn so quickly.

If supplying a washer and dryer can make it a more attractive rental and command a higher rent, I'd do it, particularly since there isn't a laundromat in town.

They think that if I can find a cheaper condo in a nicer/safer, more centrally located area, I can command the rent to cover HOA’s.I don’t mind buying in South Dallas or some other areas if I feel safe (I’ll be a single woman, living alone, I’ve had run ins before) and I think my investment will at least hold its value.

@Nate Hayes, there is hope for us all, starting local really helps, the possibility that a top dog will sniff out a  deal 1 mile from you faster than you is really down to your network in the area, and part of your network should be lenders too...you'd be shocked at the 'power' you can command if you put a juicy deal under contract.

Pet-friendly rentals in my market command the highest rent.

@Bjorn Ahlblad as a military member I will tell you the lease may not be with the military but the military OWNS said tenant and will have no problem sending JAG to step in on his behalf to mediate for him if he feels he has been wronged and complains to his command.

The other day, she told her dog to sic a little boy outside the complex, luckily the dog did not obey her command.