Especially if you live in a cold weather climate, like Boston, it can be difficult even getting out of the house!

I stay away from areas that snow because I don't like the cold. 

That is VERY LOW and typically only seen in brand new apartment complexes built or full gut to the studs rehabs for the first 5 years of ownership when everything is new.Typical expense is 50% of gross expected income and if landlord pays utilities 60% ESPECIALLY in cold belt states where properties tend to need more care and maintenance than many warm belt state areas.

We simply do not have the same business drive when it comes to the use of cold hard cash.

@Milena Simsic  haha, i was out running in the cold when i responded and it looks like i didnt make sense :)My suggestion is to start with an easy renovation - find a contractor and handyman and do this one project before starting on others - you will learn a lot!   

Cut them off cold and get them out asap.First learn your state landlord tenant regulations.

Do you think he's going to stand out in the rain and freezing cold a smoke when he can sit next to a window and blow the smoke out?

Laminate would be my choice in areas where vinyl will  get cold, like over a concrete floor, but maybe you don't have that problem in TX. 

We had a single guest complain that the rental was horribly cold so we put a note that the temperature of the unit is 68 degrees.

I just want to get over the anxiety way before I get ready to make a deal and I want to know is there talking a agent down on price or is that only the owner.