Lots of service sectors folks; a helicopter pilot and web designer;  a mechanic, etc..

My wife is an RN and I'm a Mechanical Engineer.

My undergraduate degree is a BS in health science with pre-physical therapy emphasis.  

Rental Property:1) Neighborhood & Proximity to Me2) Size/Number of bedrooms3) Economic Profile: Price, Value, rental income (below or at market rate), upside potential, cash flow, return on invested capital4) Condition, particularly, Systems/Mechanicals & Foundation/Roof5) How to optimize the income and increase value

We could probably sell a few more plans if we did wave that "loan candy" around, but that is not what we are here for.The only reason the 401k loan provision exists is because congress knew folks would not contribute to 401k plans if they did not feel there was a mechanism to pull funds out.If possible, I suggest you operate without the 401k loan if you can.  

Contractors-- I use about 10 different contractors.General Contractor Licensed and InsuredEMP's Electrician--Plumber--Mechanical (HVAC)RooferExterior Contractor that will do Painting, Fasica, Soffit, Gutters, Brickwork etcLandscapersGranite SupplierCleaning CompanyWindow Cleaner**Those are my 10 contractors that I use on a normal basis unless I get into Tear Downs or Gut Jobs. 6.

Our company puts a strong emphasis on the level of owner occupied properties in the immediate area."

This will allow me to tell if the tenant accessed the attic when I perform my inspections and also allow for a quick entry in the event of an emergency with one of the mechanical units in the attic.I'm also going to add a no storage in attic clause to my lease.

Agreed with Jon...Keep in mind that a large % of the expenses are going to be taxes, insurance, vacancy, property management, and maintenance.The part you're talking about (capital expenses) can be mitigated in the short-term, but keep in mind that if you hold a property for 5 years, that means the new buyers are going to be 5 years closer to needing a new roof, new mechanicals, etc, so they will factor that depreciation into their offer.The best way to save on expenses short-term (in my opinion) is to do your own property management and save 10-18%.

I once heard a joke about a mechanic and a car.