OK maybe that was weak but I couldn't resist.

Tenants, particularly students and young professionals, seem to be almost incapable of cleaning tile and you will eventually have ugly, stained grout lines.We still put soaker tubs and tile surrounds in our higher end rentals, but are doing so for the aesthetics.When we do use a 3-5 piece tub-surround, we never put them directly on the framing, but alway use a backer - rigid foam/rock board/mould resistant sheetrock - to prevent the surround from warping.

With the market as hot as it is I'd imagine you hit some resistance, more from the LA than the Seller, to meeting in person at the property.Appreciate any experience you can share.

Unless this is put into the lease though, sometimes tenants are resistant because it might be an inconvenience driving to the bank vs. mailing the check.

So, it comes out of the security deposit.Experience in managing hundreds of people tells me that people are like water will always follow the path of least resistance.

Path of least resistance. 

I also have about ~75k in principal balance so the flame isn't worth the candle for those folks, probably.

I heard a guy on a podcast recently talking about his investing in startups and the host asked him if he was ever concerned that most startups flamed and burned.

I know your post is not aimed at younger investors like myself, but I couldn't resist chiming in; the recession shaped the foundation of my adult life.In my friend circle, we ALL had at least one parent, if not both, lose a job.

Cash flow is recession resistant so take your time and find something that pencils out well.