I think as long your HOA and Lease Rent is not eating all your expected profit, then it may not be a bad deal, especially if you can turn it into a STR, you can definitely maximize the returns.

The kids dont work, but still want to go out to eat every day.

We all need to eat and all but, "I" would simply say to hell with the others and do what I suggested.Now, about lunch ...

I found that many lenders create a which comes first chicken or egg challenge. 

Most people charge a flat fee across the board to each tenant and then eat the difference.Good luck.   

However, you’ll need to carefully assess the cost of repairs and ongoing maintenance to ensure it doesn’t eat into your returns.Appreciation vs.

The primary question is, since inflation is eating away your money, how do you put it to use and hedge?

Think New York, San Diego, Los Angeles, etc.The problem with that though is a) You may not be able to afford anything there, or b) If you can afford a downpayment you'll be eating negative cash flow.In short, the highest appreciating markets may cost you too much per month to participate in because they have large negative cash flow.So you need to find a market that balances the two.

Things like: you need to provide a toaster (my family doesn't really eat toast) so we didn't think of it when outfitting kitchen.From there: market, market, market your property.  

Half-full trash can b/c he's eating lunch at the desk every day?)