Are there any best practices on the max % one should increase rent on a new lease? 

We are able to get a higher cap rate in Detroit compared to California while simultaneously spreading risk over multiple properties.

Networking is always a great practice and you never know who you might meet there and what good information they have to share.

Quote from @Edward Dandrea: Best practice is to get confirmation in writing, even by text or email.

It takes practice to have them, but not having them can lead to further issues down the road.I would arrange for a "semi-annual" walkthrough to inspect the unit.

While indemnification provisions are good in theory, there are times where it can be tough to enforce them in practicality.4. 

With that said, I am sure that there are many people making money in real estate in the tri-city area, and if you are living there anyway, you can certainly house-hack and decrease your cost of living while simultaneously growing equity in properties.

Written by attorney investors, it's full of practical advice pertaining to management of investment property, has sample forms that can be edited, and - most importantly - they tell you what your primary state laws are and where you can read them.

I personally totally agree with the point that if you learn study and practice you will succeed.

Networking is always a great practice and you never know who you might meet there and what good information they have to share.