Hi Adam, You could try offering rent concessions, such as sign an 18 month lease and get 2 free months of rent.Your wallet probably won't notice a difference, and if you pick "Lifetime Renter Types" (and take good care of them) with a GREAT Rental history, that 2 months will be money well foregone.Good Luck! 

That can get you lower in the range..just look for cosmetic updates like paint and cabinets refinished with new hardware..you can find some amazing ideas for DIY updates.

Most paint stores or hardware stores have them.

These can be pretty persuasive sale s pitches so hold on to your wallet.

The updates will consist of flooring, cabinets, countertops, hardware, fixtures, appliances, light plumbing/electrical.

I would call some supply shops in the area for the plumbers/electrician referees; even ACE hardware has a pegboard w/ business cards on it and a pro desk which should know who is who in the area.

Forget your local hardware chains, my distributor who sells direct all over Massachusetts is on back order for 90 days!

nice hardware, paint, landscaping on the cheap... look at best comps to see what they have

A GC is looking out for his profit , a project manager who is your employee will be looking out for your wallet . 

We also painted, swapped out hardware and fixtures throughout.