Technically we should call it basis reduction, but the end result is the same: he owes tax on the entire insurance plus appreciation plus depreciation.

If something breaks they are going to get it fixed - but you want to be careful about who they call.

A more intrusive approach would be to Google the owner name and see if you can find relatives and skip trace and call them.

You can't call up Apple's CEO and suggest improvements, but you can definitely upgrade your rental property's kitchen to command higher rent.

You can get a 1 year look back occasionally so you do not always need a 2 year average. 

The current owner listed last years income as $51,000, but currently has rents at (for the five separate units): $650, $750, $800, $825, $1125 (the math doesn't totally add up so maybe he changed a rent payment at some point). 

Quote from @Jamie A Tremble: I am dealing with them right now and there is a response now from the so-called owner registering the Florida and it's Tim Richerson, Michael Richerson, and Karen Tran.. of course the responder is a Debbie p but they don't answer their phone and it is Tim's voicemail.

I reside in FL, so I would like to purchase in neighboring states if possible, but I heard Ohio is a great market.   

Staying as liquid as possible might also help you handle CapEx, taxes, small repairs, and so on.Let me know if you have any questions—I’d love to help in any way I can!

This is a great place to learn and to connect with people so take advantage of all the great resources.Welcome aboard and best of luck investing!