Sometimes this can be done over the phone to isolate the precise location of the leak.Also I just saw an ad for sensors that wrap around pipes.

So far, I’m thinking about extra closets with locks, maximum number of bedrooms feasible (aiming for four or five), fireplace and some kind of a nice outdoor deck or screen porch, possibly a hot tub.

This covers my time for phone calls and supervision as well as the liability if they screw something up.

For me I don't want to wait by my phone and they definitely don't want to sit there waiting for me to say yes or no because time wasted is money wasted and again they will just charge you more on next job if they think you will make them call to approve a 50 dollar upcharge everytime.

I found a fourplex in my area, looked up the owner, and finally got his cell phone number.

Google their website and find their SS dept phone number.

Screen screen your tenants !!!!!

Even the best tenant screening can’t guarantee a cooperative tenant Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I just thought it was normal that my father was always around, not going to an office, but on phone calls/email.

Pick up the phone and start calling.There's a few ideas.