One extra honorable mention that I would add is a motion-activated light by the front step.

Do you have an alarm system, motion detectors, alarm signs up, etc.?  

The nice thing about doing it that way is that you're going through all the motions of the type of investing you want to do.

In addition, He disconnected a smoke detector in another tenants unit when the lease explicitly states that is forbidden.

For me personally, I've found playing the Cashflow 101 game helps to churn the wheels and get my ideas in motion.

If it's something like a water heater brace or smoke detector or appliance or easily repairing something?  

I'm thinking that meeting up with someone established in the REI world and seeking to understand deals in motion will help me wrap my brain around the A-Z of how deals get worked.

You may also consider a small wireless alarm w/motion sensor. 

I would say it depends on just how "move-in ready" you are expecting.If someone is sitting on a property that is in relatively good repair overall, with the exception of some paint, flooring, and minor kitchen updates (countertop replacement/cabinet refinishing) for example, as a result of inheritance or a property that may be more of an afterthought for whatever reason, then perhaps through direct mail you may uncover a handful of decent leads/deals whose owners haven't necessarily yet put the wheels in motion to get rid of a property that they may consider selling once they are given a slight nudge.

Anybody whose BS detector didn't go off upon reading that snippet should learn to be more skeptical.