Hi All,In small multifamilies where there's no on site maintenance person to shut lights off, how do most of you ensure that your tenants aren't always leaving the lights on in the common areas?

Maybe some Pine Trees blended in for color in the off season.Also, decorative light poles, maybe a few decorative boulders, to add to the landscape.Looks like you have some large yard areas...

Looking for suggestions from others rehabbing properties in Southern California and dealing with landscaping choices in light of the ongoing drought:I have an upcoming flip in San Diego in a neighborhood with a lot of families and young children. 

Making sure the thermostat is working, checking the transformer on the circuit board, changing the pilot light module or heat sensor. 

Tenants expect you to raise rents yearlyWhen you do raise rents offer something in return so they know their rent increase is going to get them something in return (a free rub cleaning or a new light/fan).

Pricing is good, just need an underlayment down and a good solid level subfloor.I'd think at a min a paint job, a new backsplash and new flooring along with better lighting would help your case.  

Multiple mailings to the SAME list.Here is some light reading.https://www.themailshark.com/blog/direct-mail/frequency-vs-reach-which-is-better-for-my-direct-mail-campaign/

I'm not making light of your situation, but that of the appraiser and the bank.

I think that this would fall under the category of "functional obsolescence" and I'm pretty sure that @Allan Glass could probably shed some light on it for you.

Show off that beautiful tile work you spent so much money on - plus with that block window, the light will fill the bathroom so much better, where a shower curtain would block that light more.