I'd start by talking to your neighbour and asking them to split the cost 50:50 saying that the longevity is reduced because their dog keeps jumping up on it. 

I see what you're saying and I will keep that in mind moving forward.  

Hiring the right team members is always challenging, as is keeping them (lots of turnover).

Finding the right property, checking its worth, making connections, choosing good renters, looking after the place, and keeping money aside for surprises are key steps.

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

I place only used and would never pay for a new stove or refrigerator.I simply keep my eyes out for good working stoves and fridges and usually have a couple spares on hand and if something goes down that is not an easy fix I just grab the trailer and dolly and exchange it.And in my area you can find working white stoves and single fridges for $100.00 each if you pick it up yourself.

Also congrats on building your real estate portfolio while keeping others in mind, too much greed in this business sometimes!

There are great agencies out there that let you keep 100% commission and you may have a nominal monthly fee based on your commission.

Where they are taking the hit on the expense end by trying to keep the total sale price at a normal point.

You should keep a 10-20% margin per clean depending on the market.