And if true, does it matter what order I do the following? 

I would only charge if the apartment was dirty beyond a reasonable amount.

Would you say this is a true assessment? 

You have a very high income and I don't see a reason to have either of those on your balance sheet.

Seems like most folks favor the liquidity aspect of building cash or investing it in more liquid assets for now.The reason people are saying don't pay off the mortgage is because you are on a real estate investment site where having available cash to invest, and using equity, is important.

No other reasoning given. 

I guess my link didn't post for some reason!

Just make sure it's built reasonably well and still check for everything that you normally would during inspection.Good luck! 

One main reason is because the cost of properties outside of California and much more affordable.

And based on what you said, it sounds like we're getting a reasonably fair deal.Al, sounded high to me too!