@Dominic Holt , I am happy to review your scenario and suggest changes that could improve your property.

Short of coming here and meeting face to face with them and come to a couple local REIA events to discuss, for those who are remote I would suggest getting into some of the NE Ohio REIA facebook groups to get some advice from locals.   

However, just to set expectations, they most likely won’t make any changes unless there’s a clear error in the valuation.That said, since the $1,000 increase works out to about $83 per month, I’d suggest checking what the market rents are in your area.

Hopefully it doesn’t come to that, but he does have two evictions on his record already so it’s not out of the realm of possibility.Thanks @Kathleen Leary for your suggestion for the lease.  

Good suggestion by @Drew Sygit to consider section 8 tenants for possible cashflow and lower vacancy. 

Can I beat inflation.Paying off a mortgage does none of those things.I'd suggest if you are able to pay off a mortgage, you instead use it to buy another "cash flowing" property. 

If the numbers aren't there yet, I'd suggest focus on growing your income, look into house hacking as previously suggested, or consider partnering with other investors who can qualify for the loans.

Quote from @Nicole Heasley Beitenman: When I was starting, I found a resource in FF that suggested pricing $300-500 above LTR rates.

For the immediate time, I'd love any contractors and handymen suggestions, but eventually, to work with agents to buy and sell in the area. 

I am open to suggestions.