You may be able to reduce costs by installing a roofing system over top of the existing system. 

I've found since 2014 Columbia has really reduced property taxes in certain areas (Richland Cty) and by buying low the beginning tax value is low.

My goal is to reduce my tax bill for 2014 if that helps. 

As soon as we took over she reduced the amount she was paying by 10% because she thought she was acting as the property manager now.  

Demand generally as a rule slacks off in the winter months, thus demand shrinks to some degree thus prices get reduced or sellers will generally accept less during this time of year.

I Want control on who is living there and the metrics I use to screen them but the best return on my investment and reduce overturn and damage to property. 

To reduce a little bit of my risk of getting bad tenants in the form of non payment, I would require two options:  A.) two month's rent ($700) up front or  B.) one month's rent ($350) with parent co-sign the Renting agreementThis particular apartment complex is highly sort after and the $350 per month rate is the lowest rate over the past 3 years.

the pay really is more equal for sexes than most other professions. 

The 1st option would allow me to close on a duplex within the next 30 days and reduce my mortgage to $150.00 per month as the other side is currently rented for $1200.00.  

I am not a marriage councilor, a quick cash business, bank, humane society etc etc.I say all this to make the point------- Have a lease    Stick to it       Be firm     Don't make concessions     It's an agreement/contract       Hold them accountable     They are an adult      Don't accept a reduced rent because you feel bad for them - this is a business not a charity.Because you accepted some sort of payment of rent you may not be able to count this month as violating the lease on the rent amount - you will have to check state and local laws.On the pet provision that was broken, you should be able to give them a 30 day vacate notice for violating the lease agreement.