Then I used stainable primer on top of the formica cabinets and applied a dark cherry stain.

Would I be relatively safe looking for issues on my own such as leaky roofs (stained ceilings), foundation cracks, drywall cracks, and poorly executed remodeling? 

now if you could build and specify components to make it work better for the long haul, like metal roof, granite counters, real wood cabinets, stained concrete floors, no maintenance exteriors etc, i wonder if you would eventually save money?

And for bigger jobs, we contract with local people (re-staining a cabin, painting, plumbing).

If they are backed up with debris, the water can pour behind the wood fascia boards and into the building.Squirrels can also work their way into roof lines and into the attic space, allowing wind and rain in.A brand new roof should be good for 20-30 years depending on things like weather, how much sun the roof gets, hail and wind damage.Good indications of a roof on the way out: shingles starting to curl on the edges, moss or other vegetation growth, missing shingles, shingles that have shifted, staining from chimney flashing or roof vent flashing, multiple layers of shingles, torn underlayment, soft or compromised sheathing (plywood or other wood products like ceder shingles).If you can get into the attic space you might be able to see what's happening, but that's not always possible.If the roof feels soft when walking on it or touching it, the sheathing is probably water-soaked or decaying.

I say "faster and cleaner" because, unlike an owner-occupant, an investor won't care so much about every little defect and stain in each property.

What I like about this paint is:1) its washable (If there is some dirt I will just wet paper towel and wipe it, and there will be no stains, looks like new)2) When I have to do touch ups it blends in well, it does not look like I have to match it.

Needless to say that going forward our plumbing supplies are always top quality from a plumbing supply house - brass and steel valves, braided steel lines for the fridge instead of plastic, Pex-A instead of B or C..We don't always choose the most expensive materials - here is where we save:- we typically install laminate counter tops and not stone- we use Sterling shower tub combos and have elminated almost all ceramic tile for kitchens and baths- we buy stained cabinets instead of painted; they are 30% cheaper and are wear much better.

Good condition just some sanding, staining and we have wood floors at low cost! 

Oddly enough A gas powered pressure washer will blast out any stain imaginable in carpeting..( thank you YouTube)  But I will Pre treat with .99 cent joy from the dollar store if it’s human blood spilled koolaid or has cigarette ash stains .