However, if I have to take the property with a tenant, my preference then is a tenant on a month-to-month agreement so if there's problems with them it's easier to get them out, and if I want to keep them then it's easier to raise the rent and I can have them sign my own lease agreement. 

Hello BP Community,My name is Shawn Roys and I am new to real estate investing and (relatively) new to BiggerPockets.My wife and I currently live in Orange, CA, but are moving to Anchorage, AK (I was born and raised in Anchorage) next year.

Week 1 in my money raising efforts, I quickly realized that the above statement is flawed.. 

Instead, think respectful and professional interactions, open and honest communication, prompt response to tenant needs, establishment of good property management systems, and customer service. 

We are billed quarterly by the town- receiving the bill about 1 month after the service date on the bill and payable about 3- 4 weeks from receipt.

As an appraiser, we provide that service.

Have you hired a service like WeGoLook.com to visit the property to see if is it occupied?

Debt service?

I retired as a Master Sergeant from the Air Force after 20 years and 7 months of honorable service. 

Their services are $99/year.