I am pretty well connected with repair guys, etc so honestly I would only be bringing someone on to split the burden...financially and otherwise. 

But what other techniques are you utilizing to ensure that you can weather a vacancy storm in your market, especially if you don't have a large portfolio to carry a few vacancies?

Not that I pay myself as it is now but just getting the funds to make repairs would be an extra hassle.

However, generally the management fee only includes collecting rents and handling the contractors (lawn care, repairs, snow removal, utilities, etc.) they will generally pass-through these expenses to the property owner.

Fix/repair any issues timely and provide the required information to any potential tenants.

Mortggae, taxes, utilities, repairs, upkeep...far more expensive than renting. 

The lease generally states we are responsible for repairs with nothing else spelled out and we have been allowed to write off the interest and taxes every year. 

Clayton County and all these inner-city places you make a good returns but their sucked away over time to repairs turn over and vandalism.

In general, we do not allow the tenants to do any repairs or improvements to properties.

Good morning All,I am repairing my new rental property and was looking to buy following items .