Can anyone offer insight to the repair / maintenance costs of leasing properties in these areas?

* Do you upcharge on maintenance?

If you're going the umbrella insurance route, make sure it will cover you for several things including just the routine slip and fall (like mold or earthquake).

However, I buy newer and higher priced SFHs with minimal maintenance needs. 

It's hard to stand out.There are some owner-occupied segments with people who share motivating factors for selling their home.Seniors with Long-time Ownership: often ready to downsize or transition to assistance.Homeowners with Low Financial Stability Scores (FSS): Struggling financially and likely ready to cash in on their asset.Both these categories have additional advantages in that they probably don’t haven’t been updated and may have deferred maintenance.

I think if I could lower the expenses from maintenance this could cash flow well. 

Market Value: $50,000Sale Price: $50,000Neighborhood: C-ClassAppreciation: Very littleClosing Costs/Registration: $2,000 (est.)Taxes/Insurance: $100/mo.Rent: $995.00 (no rehab needed/already rented)25% allowance for capex/repairs/maintenance: $250/mo.MONTHLY EXPENSES: ($100)+($250)=$350.00MONTHLY CASH FLOW: $645.00CoC %: $7,740/$52,000=14.88%

Low maintenance yard, with brick patio in backyard.

Have tenant pay you rent directly, report maintenance, etc.

You raise $5K/door (or more) upfront to address deferred maintenance and value-add improvements.