Here are some free tools to aid the comparisons:https://datausa.io/ > Quick Graph on theMarkethttp://www.city-data.com/ > Extensive Market Data on median income,population growth, crime, etchttps://www.niche.com/ > Combines Market analysis with Reviewshttps://www.point2homes.com/ > Market Analysis with cool graphshttp://www.justicemap.org/ > Income Map at neighborhood levelhttps://www.deptofnumbers.com/ > Data on Employment, Rent, Income, GDPhttps://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045219 > Population and Demographic infohttps://multifamily.cushwake.com/Research > Great Market reports on all Major Citieshttps://www.berkadia.com/research-and-resources > Great Market reports on all Major Citieshttps://alndata.com/market-reviews/ > Multifamily reports on all Major Citieshttps://www.apartments.com/ > Rent Compshttps://www.rentometer.com/ (edited)

I'll want to do some general maintenance, fix what needs be fixed (there is a detached workshop/garage building that may need some attention), and improve the landscaping during their tenancy.

Pretty up the property with nice touches that will appeal - landscaping, lighting, etc.. 

Units mostly on the smaller side for their configuration,  but in that location not a big issue given likely renter  demographics.   

A landscaper is hired if no tenant offer to do it for pay.I haven't owned six plexes and 8, 10 plexes.

It seems to me there are more up-front expenses if you buy more individual properties (title fees, mortgage broker fees, etc. for each property, some of which are flat fees no matter what the place is worth).However when you get into multi-family homes, as a landlord you end up paying for things like trash collection, landscaping, and even utilities if they haven't been separated out.We are doing this in a 1031 exchange, but there are some fees that are not covered by the 1031 funds (for example, the cost of obtaining a mortgage).Thanks in advance for your collective wisdom!

No garage, two story, side by side, two bedroom/1.5 or 2 bath.Land cost is 10k and the duplex will generate 20k/yr.Looking for input on if this is a feasible project with current material costs.Thank youWhile I appreciate the desire to do it yourself, I would hire a GC and just get it done sans for maybe the interior paint and landscape.

Google and phone calls would be your best route, but as noted I would search for designers if you are wanting a basic update for curb appeal.A landscape architect/designer might also be a good route to look into.  

If it is a single family house, are they using the water for landscaping?? 

He also lost several of our landscaping/snow removal jobs that paid him about $3500/yr.