The entry price to DC rental market is elevated compared to other parts of the country but the returns are worth it.

Lots: http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/89351But listen more than you talkHave an Elevator PitchDon't just talk but, connectGet Cards and write notes

Rates are artificially low and rents are elevated.

I specialize in condominiums in my area and at this point I've looked over so many disclosures and financials, I can tell pretty quickly based on the number of units and cost of cap expenditures about how likely they are to have an assessment in the near future and for what (roof, elevators, etc.) even if it's not on the agenda.

OR sometimes wholesalers will partner with a hard money lender to offer a project with a reduced down payment.In either scenario, the deals aren't always as good as they appear....either the price is elevated, the Seller was having a hard time selling it, and/or a Buyer can't get traditional financing on it because of it's condition, and decided to offer Seller financing. 

These are the elevated categories and flood insurance is much cheaper than V, A or AE zones.

Certainly in a 3rd floor apartment (no elevator) you would face serious headwind (not to mention damage to common areas from moving appliances in and out) if you didn't furnish appliances.

We've only paid 2k so far, but they're now called Real Estate Elevated, also using the Tareik & Christina hook.

Before pics are irrelevant to the appraiser and they will take their own as is photos, although a professional shot of the front elevation provided can not hurt.I provide a list of repairs and upgrades, makes and models of major items like appliances, plumbing and lighting fixtures (if quality of brand is worth mentioning), etc. and most importantly, comps showing specifically what the comp home didn’t have that mine does or anything negative about the comp home in hopes to get a push in price for higher quality items in subject property and less negatives of subject property.As an example, if one comp had a super short driveway or a crappy house next to or across from it and mine didn’t, I’m making a point to mention that.

Ultimately, in order to elevate the level of professionalism on the site, we require full real names.