Many of the architectural styles overlap, and for most investors on BP they aren't restoring historical homes, but redesigning older homes and updating their looks, adding modern conveniences, etc.

I have a feeling that this convenience is one of the reasons they like the building, but my gut keeps telling me to take them out while I can use the village inspector as the "bad guy"

We've had great experiences with that, and our tenants like the convenience/flexibility.

It was apparently more convenient for them to prepay then have to worry about the monthly payment.

Convenience is a big factor in RE, so cash for keys is a very common procedure.

By 8 pm I had an upset text message from the occupant with a picture of the 3 day notice, asking if it was really necessary to post it, since she had already given me a date when the rest of the rent would be paid (which conveniently falls inside of the 3 day notice period). 

I'd get them to initial that they received it on a notice you write up for them, explaining the new pest control service info.I'd tell them that the hose was left for their convenience, and if they feel they need a new one, that's on them to buy.  

The time period under consideration is also a key ingredient: your above post seems to implicitly assume an annual period - this is both a common and convenient window, but other durations may also be used.If a landlord choses not increase rent on a tenant at every opportunity that presents in the short term, it does not preclude an optimized performance of the property over the longer term.We have an instance right now where we have chosen not to charge market rent.  

That's why if I had good reason to suspect trouble brewing, it would be one approach worth trying.When we do periodic inspections (at least twice a year) and enter the residence, not only do we give our tenants legal notice to enter, but we ask them for a date and time that is convenient for them and set an appointment.

I am looking for a convenient and inexpensive way to collect rent online, if you have any suggestions of other online services.