I've seen these situations spiral out of control and lead to occupants neglecting/damaging the property, such as making holes in the wall to look for hidden cameras, nailing doors and windows shut, etc.

For example I’ve got to add a basement egress window and I’ve just gotten 2 estimates, one for $20K and the other for $23K.

The question is do you have the team OOS that can consistently deliver you solid deals, and then have the right management team in place to ensure profitability and peace of mind.I own a vertically integrated real estate company in Birmingham and we help people all the time wanting to build wealth in a lower priced market with high cashflow. 

We weren’t particularly picky about our exteriors but some materials were outright prohibited including vinyl or aluminum siding, vinyl windows (which would have saved us so much more money), and more.

They didn't pay when my tenants shot out the window or when they stole the copper out to the AC.

Definitely not a slam dunk because you did have some info on these issues, and did have the opportunity to dig deeper on these issues during your due diligence window and renegotiate accordingly prior to closing.

I am building a vertical addition above the existing main level which would have vaulted ceilings OR alternatively the front half would be vaulted and rear where the bath/closet is situated would have flat ceilings with rooftop deck above.    

At least that’s what it costs me to run my big window AC unit.

Open windows and make sure there is fresh air.

This will be a detailed inspection of every room, ceiling, floor, plumbing, smoke/CO2 detectors, window treatments and screens, etc.