What's absurd and scary is that in another building of mine, with valid state and city inspections before and after purchase, has a basement stair enclosure and door of thin wood alone!

That is only part, a smaller part, of RE options or sales, you need to be able to demonstrate value in accepted methods, hard costs, market values and valid income projections.

I would pay for their gas and maybe pay a moderate flat price for the signs.

I can't tell you how many times I've heard people had car troubles and thats why their rent was late.One of my favorites was when they claimed their purse was stolen while they were paying for gas at a gas station - and the money order for rent was in their purse.That being said, whats the point of having a professional PM if they're going to fall for the stories too?

Gas prices go up, food prices go up, and the tenant has already had 4 years of no cost increases.This is why I feel that B is your best option.Let us all know what you decide.

Hopefully you have something in writing showing you have a valid lease.

The only reason I have any debt at all is because I charge nearly all my expenses (gas, food, cell phone bill) to build up my credit.

Electric and gas, no.

This kind of stuff is inspirational.Thanks for putting a little more gas in my tank of motivation.

Questioning the validity of any investment type is misplaced.