So the benefit does apply to, say, a newly purchased duplex that I'm renovating, is that right?

Where would you say a good area for an airbnb would be in Miami/FLL ?

John-  The temp never approaches 120 degreesMy wife and I travel extensively and to a person have never had anyone say a negative word about Austin(Except traffic)

I wanted to say a big thank you to all of the BP community!

Crimeso with rents basically 700 to 900 these days.. that same renter IF they wanted to be a home owner is going to look at the highest price thing they can and will not buy in most of those areas.Even though you have say a 50k home if they bought it payment would be 250 to 300 they won't do it.. they will buy the 100 to 125k home and spend the 900.. they like anyone else does not want to live in those areas as homeowners. once these neighborhoods go rental that's it the value is only as good as the rent even though we can value SFRs using cap rates.. the reality is that's exactly how they are valued in those areas.

It’s say a lot about the tenant, that they’re stable.

Suffice it to say, as a buyer it means nothing.A true "Market Rent" is whatever the market will bear. 

Were there changes -- say a big jump in the usage the last few months which may indicate leaks or breaks.

I would say a house in good condition could sell for 80k in this area. 

Pitbulls are quiet dogs, and they  are short haired and not as messy as  say a cocker spaniel.... you get my point. but once again Dan thanks for renting to pets period......