But the items that are specific to financial performance and the safety of yourself and the neighbors, etc should be the ones you pay more attention to.  

He was thinking about adding a gps tracker onto it for safety. 

I am a fan of checking in occasionally to make sure the cleaner is on top of things and to do a walk through to check safety things like deck boards and steps, railings etc.

From either a safety standpoint or because the property couldn’t meet my standards of being a nice place to live (not a slum property).

Research specific neighborhoods for safety and rental demand to ensure they align with your investment goals.Hope this helps.

Walking its streets, exploring neighborhoods, and soaking up the local vibe can provide a deeper understanding of the market dynamics.Due Diligence: Prioritize comprehensive due diligence on any property you consider.

You need more space and more safety than say, a regular single male would.

Get creative, buy a $200 security system and place them facing the common areas and exterior of the property for the tenants safety.

Understanding How Real Property Works I am not making the argument to do anything unsafe or that you need to do all of the work on your properties yourself but I believe that understanding how real property works will save you from being ripped off, allow you to prioritize repairs more effectively, and get you out of tough situations by providing you with solutions to problems.Why Basic Home Maintenance Skills MatterCost Savings: Knowing how to do some basic things yourself can save thousands of dollars.

In competitive markets like San Antonio and Austin you’ll need to prioritize design and furnishing and I highly recommend using an STR focused interior designer.