When I left there in 2005, the City was reducing the number of lawns, cutting back on vegetation that required watering, and I believe they even drained Desert Shores for a while.

That's what they get paid to know and be able to apply, and if you don't have a savvy CPA, then kick them to the curb and get a better one -- I've upgraded mine for the past two years and it's reducing my stress and optimizing my business.Be well,

Some caulk and weatherstripping can do wonders on reducing your energy bill.Finally, if you want to get the absolute best remodeling designs, go to the local mobile home dealer and walk through the new homes and take notes on the color treatments and textures.

Having this kind of diversity reduces (doesn't eliminate) the risk of being totally dependent on one market.

Because I have several close friends and family in my focus area it reduces the risk. 

If you are a bachelor or your partner doesn't mind having other housemates, you can buy single or multi family home and rent out the vacant rooms to pay for the bulk of your mortgage.

I will be reducing my interest on the 5 unit retail commercial building from 5.75% to 3.5%.

They are the ultimate tax reducing vehicle. 

Also, reduced expenses by negotiating with waste removal, converting all exterior and common area light fixtures to LED and tighter property management overall. 

Would it be a good idea to bring in a local real estate agent or some professional to walk through the house and figure out if there are things which I should take care of to reduce the liability prior to renting it out?