From there i'd move onto price & then the quality of the building in relation to the price & best possible use of the dirt. 

If you want to get better tenants, you must do two things:Buy higher quality properties.Have a solid tenant screening process.The quality of the rental property is the largest predictor of tenant quality.

I'm assuminh that if I do the latter, then I'd also use my personal account for repairs, maintenance & improvements to my unit as well.Is there some other method?

Its a scary choice but I think if I start off with something on the lower price scale it wouldnt be a huge risk, besides the possibility of larger repairs earlier maybe.

He recommended I get someone who can remove the microwave, adjust the vent to go back up, and if need be, build or repair a venting structure to the outside wall about ten feet away. 

Daniel Crenshaw - Kathy Henley - I think your location and asset quality makes the decision.

Hi BP,I'm having an issue with my boiler and thought I would ask here before calling the repair guy.

If I buy a property in need of work or improvements my after repair/improvement revenues are fairly predictable because they are based on what that market is generating today for a similar property.

Others swear by Airbnb, but I believe price point, length of booking allowed, quality of property are major factors in who books and on which platform.

(Besides buying a note with a 5-7 year balloon) Check with Norris group in your area they will have short term notes of high quality