We got a similar  call, from a shocked contractor that our copper pipes were stolen... the week we hired contractors.. but surprisingly weren't stolen the 4 years the house was vacant?  

Shoot me an email at your convenience and I'll introduce you to him.

Actually, and this comes as a surprise to some, there's only one brief mention of smoke detector in the Chicago RLTO.  

On top of that, they *LOVE* the house and its convenient location and are looking to rent very long term (They have two middle-school aged kids and having them in my school district is paramount to them). 

The IRS (pub 527) is not very clear (surprise) on this considering how common a scenario it is.Thanks in advance!

They can help when it comes to fixing things and are convenient as they can coordinate repairs directly with a tenant.  

That can be copied a given to the owner and make them more comfortable with your ability to close.Another thing you should consider selecting an office for its convenient location and have a minimal of distractions.  

You don't want to pay for a surprise 10-20k roof or 4k water heater out of pocket.

Assuming without evidence you are not married...if I were I in your shoes, I would:1) Figure out where most of your friends are living2) Find a convenient block or subdivision in that area that is mostly owner-occupied homes3) Buy a 3-BR house there with an FHA mortgage and move into it4) Get 2 roommates and collect reasonable rent from them5) Live there for at least two years6) Sell when you get married or have another reason to move (take the tax free gain)

@Deren Huang - someone I knew, convenience.