That way, there is some type of cushion to help against any high usage months, should they just happen to use more than your previous tenants did, or if you unfortunately get tenants who abuse the "utilities included" opportunity. 

It is also helpful because we are Realtors and real estate investors and it provides a cushion for months that are leaner than others.

Prices in relation to rent are too high to have the cushion that was available before. 

If the work needs updates, that’s where it can add up, but $30K sounds like a reasonable cushion based on what you’re describing.It sounds like a solid deal, especially if the cash flow is good.

With your additional $100,000, you’d have a nice cushion to renovate or furnish a property like that.It really comes down to how involved you want to be and your long-term goals.

A good property manager can help with tenant screening, enforce lease terms, and handle evictions more efficiently if it comes to that.Require a Larger Security Deposit: Within the bounds of local regulations, a larger deposit can provide a cushion in case of damage or unpaid rent.Consider Rent Guarantee Insurance: Some companies offer insurance products that can cover lost rent in case of tenant default.

Well the bet I'm making here is that CapEx and repairs will be very low the first few years (honestly event he first decade), and once all the construction ends I will be able to increase my rent closer to market rent at $2k which will give me a better cushion.

I’ve hit a challenge in shifting my mindset and would like to ask the group - if I’m not an extrovert with a sales background and the cushion of a 6-figure corporate job, will I be able to succeed at REI?  

That’s a better cushion, even if it’s modest.

A friend of mine in Austin once negotiated a partial buy back option when the seller realized they might want back in if the market soared.. from what I read in Bloomberg, that approach can work well if both sides trust each other.If the tenants’ rent covers your carrying costs, that’s a nice cushion, but you still need to clarify that buy back clause.