It was really hard to schedule cleaners and contractors for repairs on such short notice, and, though we were able to get some of them, my husband ended up doing a great deal of work on the unit (and had to cancel a number of his plans in order to do so).

@Robert Schwenkler We set up those gaps, when needed, in our Property Management system.

When taxes increase, when insurance goes up, when other things happen, how do you cover those?

You break up. 

I know condo prices here don't usually go up a lot, but I'm hoping to find a good spot.

@Ryan DaultonNot a specialist in this but I was told I could not spend a penny of my personal money or sweat on this whether it be furniture, a light fixture or anything and that seems to be in line with the comment above

Some base hits...Story of my life....

These properties are built with cash flow in mind and are located in areas that are both up-and-coming and stable.

I'll hook you up!" 

I’m less concerned about the small items, and I focus on where big costs surprises can come up (new sewer lines, breaker upgrades, galvanized piping, etc) so I can re-trade my offer appropriately.