A full application, all paperwork, all tax returns (2 years), credit report, whole 9 yards.

We had a very simple agreement that, in exchange for them living there, they would mow the yard and (I think--though it's been quite a few years now) leave behind the used stove they were bringing from a craigslist purchase. 

And after a short while managing, buy your second.Sounds like you're young and you only need 10 free and clear houses like this to retire on, so one per year will get the job done.STAY with houses like the above, which might be a 1500 to 2000 sq ft, 2 to 3 br, 2 ba, CHA, CB, garage with nice yard.

The SOW was complete flooring replacement throughout, scrape popcorn ceilings, replace countertops, reconfigure the stairs, patch a hole in the 1/2 bath wall, replace all lighting fixtures, service the HVAC, paint, clean the back yard, haul off all items left by seller, replace a bathroom sink/countertop and general cleaning.

The SOW was complete flooring replacement throughout, scrape popcorn ceilings, replace countertops, reconfigure the stairs, patch a hole in the 1/2 bath wall, replace all lighting fixtures, service the HVAC, paint, clean the back yard, haul off all items left by seller, replace a bathroom sink/countertop and general cleaning.

Separate yards - duplex and single standing unit.

Also, they let their dog destroy it with lots of digging and pretty much what looks like a 3 foot wide 'racetrack' around a tree that's in the yard. 

Did you ever consider investing in your own back yard?

They have a sign in the yard which is asking you to buy their house, so its not an awkward solicitation.

I would also like it stated that the Tenant(s) do not have access to the remainder of the property. the immediate yard is fine, but I would like to remain access to the woods and fields for hunting and farming.