Find a local metal shop (preferably one who specialized in wrought iron) and have them weld on the extra needed material, then have the railings powder sandblasted and powdercoated.

To me that extra step is worth not having a balloon payment and slightly higher rate.Now with joint ventures, properties that are 5+ units, or it is short term financing I look at hard money, private loans, commercial financing, etc.

This conversation is where YOU are earning your share of the action.

I pretty much just dived in head first becuase I was at a job I hated, and still am not in the fan club of, living week to week on my earned income while working 2 full time jobs, I have a beautiful fiance and 5 year old daughter with her that I want to provide a better life for.

I could always pick up shifts for extra money if needed, and I would not need to worry about benefits since I would be benefited working that amount of hours at a hospital. 

If there are any locals that need extra help with their RE in exchange for letting me pick their brain I'd be very willing to come help you out! 

It may sound nice to pay a 5% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no add-on fees.

I will likely have to sell the property since the rent can't support an extra $291/month in taxes. 

My brother is lucky because thats not the case but I  would hate for him to be considered a charity case just because he's trying to earn a living.

I wouldn't put forth the extra effort because an increase of $50 on a $2095 rent wouldn't be a hardship whereas a $500 increase on a $2095 rent might be.At the end of the day, I really do think its market dependent.