The newer ones continually have repair issues, mostly driven the electronic controls and complex systems to squeeze out efficiency. 

The big players and the largest real estate funds and acquirers are large organizations that absolutely care about what the pedigree of its employees looks like. 

But these people usually lose their shirts.The rehab-to-rent model is pretty much dead in western Pennsylvania, especially in C-class, unless you can control rehab costs mercilessly.

In my experience though, self managing the pricing structure, guest experience, and messages are things I want to control and don’t need to pay someone else to do. 

Focus on what we can control...adding value, good locations, cash flow, prudent debt, and reserves and we will be fine.

Although they have been a lifesaver for me they probably are not what I would use today, however because they are not consumer oriented you have a LOT of control all the way up to locking out the thermostat completely to only follow your programming.

Just looking for a way to gain back control of the situation without antagonizing good tenants.

I have a Bryant furnace roughly 40 yrs old, still working but sometimes it does not stop thru the thermostat control.

If so, the Association usually insures and controls the exterior of the building. 

Personally, I'd avoid that because it means high prices and huge HOA fees and you have no control over your revenue stream so this isn't the best way to get a great ROI.