We are OUT of Iraq, at least combat troops.

Obama was the one saying there was going to be hand to hand combat.

There was a recent forum here in seattle at which RE advisors commented on the state of the apartment market and the effect the ailing economy has been having on rent prices.Here in seattle, we've seen a 3% reduction in rental rates on average, and are expecting a potential drop of almost 10% over the next year.I have not yet seen a reduction in any of the units I'm renting, but i have started noticing an uptick in late rents.I'm considering writing an article about some creative things landlords have done to combat this falling rental trend and the increase of late or missing rent payments.

One catastrophe (fire, hurricane, etc.) at a multi can lose you all of your tenants (you can get limited insurance for lost rent, however).Or the next 'Love Canal' might be found next to your property...I've seen neighborhoods around here turn bad in a matter of months and rapidly decline into combat zones...

In California, a "professional" tenant can make life a living hell for a landlord unless they have somebody equally experienced to combat them.Never bring a knife to a gun fight.

Just to add to the adverse possession or prescriptive easement issue, the best way to combat the problem as the fee owner who is subject to the loss via adverse possession is to record on the land records a notice.

The state has set aside quite  a bit of money to combat unlicensed activities not only by people acting as unlicensed brokers but all other categories including contractors, hair stylists, etc. 

Are they a good hard-working family that's down on their luck or are they combative druggies that are going to take all the copper with them when they go?  

No, It is to build confidence and professional self-esteem giving each service member the knowledge that if they are ever in a combat situation that can perform.   

We are combatting this by ensuring all marketing is top-notch, properties are in excellent condition and priced competitively, and qualified tenants are getting white-glove treatment for showings.