{In fact, I would contend that whenever you enter into an agreement to purchase you should do so with the intention to close ... but that's another discussion}.If these were my properties, I would discourage you from entering into an agreement of purchase and sale (APS), knowing you plan to wholesale them.  

I would contend, though, that as your cost of materials goes up (more expensive fixtures, etc.), you're probably doing other things that would increase labor costs for a nicer house.

One option, to help the tenant meet their obligation, would be to provide the riding lawnmower, but there may be some additional liability concerns to contend with if you do that.

I think Northeast Ohio is a great market and contender for turnkey properties that a passive investor will love but I fear just as you say below that companies will compete on price not value.

If you assume a 40% expense ratio, this property looks like this:Gross rents: $3,000Operating Expenses: $1,200 per monthNOI: $1,800 per monthYou're assuming that Craig is going to be able to do 100% financing here, which I'll contend is impossible in the current lending environment.

Our tenant has had to contend with mice during her first month in out investment property.

Credit score 760.No equity going into a house at the moment- but have the cheapest rent possible in your area.Two biggest contenders in my mind at the moment: Dump all profits into index funds utilizing some IRA/401k contributions for extra benefit OR Save up enough to begin flipping houses- still do 401k to at least matching levelNote: not working a 9-5 job, work all your own hours only have to attend 2 meetings/wk 2 hrs eachYour job is already incredibly rewarding so you are willing to take on extra bs/work in order to compound your savings over time.

This article contends that the upward march of rent prices we've been seeing for the last few years may be tapering.  

We don't have harsh winters, wet humid conditions, or basements to contend with.

I'll also throw out there that your local bank may provide more attractive downpayment terms, but likely you'll contend with shorter amortizations and balloon payments.