But yes, there are people who pick rentals if the landlord is a good salesman with a lot of experience and reputation in the area.

They get pissed because they get caught in not actually doing their homework, but they can't back down from their initial position because they think it will harm their reputation with their client....

I'm desperately in need of a recommendation for a reputable PM in Cleveland OH - W99th street area.

If everyone knows everyone else's business, does the duplex have a reputation that will make it unrentable (or rented at a reduced rate), even if the problem is fixed (i.e., how do you overcome the perception the mold is still an issue)?

I have found that most contractors that are listed there and have many "feedbacks" that are positive, are reputable.

Do you need to talk about your ethics or do you need to establish a good reputation?

Lend through a reputable hard money lender

There are two very reputable companies that handle tax deed clean up without the expense and time of a quiet title action.

I'd probably tell them to keep the dog on plastic sheets.

It is definitely an example of building your business or your reputation on sand instead of bedrock.Good luck - Chris