There's rent control, rent increases, rent regulations, etc.

He then provides free labor to that company to increase profits. 

Will this area see a huge increase in value and rental income?

not 10%... not 25%... more like a 75 or 100% increase from purchase price usually.and as others have said you don't want to buy it with a DSCR loan - you want to buy it with hard money / bridge money and then refinance into a DSCR loan.using a HELOC for the down payment just puts tremendous pressure on you to boost the value. 

Annual increases in keeping with HUD's fair market rents build in a stable increase in revenue.Regular inspections from the local agency provides us with an excuse to get into the units to check for maintenance issues that often go unreported and cause more damage.We love the model.

Marketing and Customer Retention: What targeted marketing strategies have you used to attract and retain customers, and how do you measure their success?

Technological advancements are reshaping the real estate industry for investors in various ways:Data Analytics: Advanced tools offer insights into market trends and investment opportunities, aiding informed decision-making and risk assessment.Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Remote property exploration with virtual tours saves time and resources, attracting potential buyers or tenants and expediting transactions.Blockchain: Secure transactions via smart contracts reduce intermediaries, costs, and fraud risks in property dealings.Online Platforms and Marketplaces: Digital platforms broaden access to properties, investment options, and real-time market data, enhancing efficiency and transparency.Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI algorithms predict market trends, identify investment opportunities, and personalize recommendations based on investor preferences.Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices provide real-time data on property performance, enabling cost reduction, efficiency improvements, and better tenant satisfaction.Crowdfunding Platforms: Real estate crowdfunding democratizes investment access, allowing smaller investors to participate in projects previously out of reach.In summary, embracing these innovations enhances efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in real estate investment, enabling investors to capitalize on emerging opportunities and stay competitive in the market.Thanks!

I would likely try to make at least 1 unit an STR to try and get a bigger return but conservatively I would be increasing my monthly living expenses pretty significantly.

She had 10 year lease before and I renewed on with her with only a minor increase because she was struggling to get by.

Pay off debt, build your credit, and increase your savings rate. 2.