Tim,I agree with you for the most part; however I would warn some of the newbies to check the vacancy and unemployment rates in their market.

When I did get one I made sure that my "new" lease ran for 18 months, or whatever it took to get it to expire in the summer.Beyond that I always made sure the yard looked as good as possible (tougher in some locales than others) that it was well-lighted inside and out and that I had the temp back up to normal and a fire going in the fireplace for every showing.Frank

This is not an issue to be taken lightly.

The nearest house to me is about 300 feet away, that's available :)Really, I'm a very light sleeper, you can tell by the time I post when I'm awake, so I do understand.

They will smash all the hallway lights every friday night, break all the windows in the common area, smoke in the hallways, and generally destroy the place.

Become a trained, registered gun owner is one option.Another is to have a security system and signs posted outside warning would-be thieves.Another is to treat your business like a business and have a safe where you keep such valuables and always lock it before retiring for the night.David J Dachtera"Success is not a destination.

Going over the lease in person creates opportunity for some really good interacitons:First, you get to dismiss this warning @Mindy Jensen wrote by negating any chance for the tenant to edit.

If it's 100% park owned homes (the least desirable park type) yoiu'll need to hire a local manager who deals with the fights, loud music at 3 am, dirt bike racing at all hours and the loose 24 oz bud light cans strewn all over (all over).You'll loose at least one home's rent given to a manager.  

I always look for the light color mis-tints at Home Depot, it saves about 30% of the cost. 

Advanta has a "light" version that allows exactly what you described.