We'll good old fashioned sweat equity is how.

Postlets, Craigslist, and a good old fashion sign in the yard.  

Another thing I would be concerned about is renting the 5 apartments in a timely fashion.  

I have a tendency to try and help people which is why I had (in one particular instance) grandma cosign and also required a double deposit.

There will still be some who apply who have a reason for automatic denial - they are willing to gamble that the landlord won't check them out ...But the answer is still yes - that way you are operating in an ethical fashion; those who have a reason for automatic denial should recignize that they are better off going elsewhere, and if they don't they can't say you never told them up front about why they would be declined automatically. 

I used an old fashioned receipt book that had a carbon sheet in it, so I'd be making a copy for myself at the same time. 

In no way fashion, shape, or form is it a good idea to keep these people.

Personally I'd leave it as is because I know people that hate cleaning tubs and have removed them @Angela Henderson.Have a tendency though to  leave things as they are (frugal-cheap type).You can try it and if can't rent then do something.

Of course I realize the old fashioned save save save and for me this is not a problem.

I'd rather know ahead if a problem may occur so we can plan proactive ways to avoid it.Responsiveness: Being an out-of-state investor, it's important to me that communications are continuous and that the property manager respond to requests in a timely fashion.