I want the backyard to be inviting, beautiful, and pet friendly, but still environmental and economical (read: I don't want grass out there). 

My landlord became my friend early on and when his age and failing health made it impossible for him to handle his properties any more he talked his daughters into selling it to me via a land contract.

To create a beautiful, prosperous and happy life, the foundation needs to be strong in our mental health and relationships. 

You wouldn't want surprised capex, surprised vacancies, unexpected expenses, ... etc.You should try and see if you can add additional income producing things (laundry, short term rentals, pets fees, RUBS? 

Responsible parents and responsible pet owners don't seem to have a problem with gas ranges, but it's something to keep in mind.

Think of all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

Are you charging monthly pet fees?

As a landlord with a large number of tenants that depend on me making the proper business decisions to maintain the health of my business I do not make emotion based decisions.

. - Floors/Carpets/bathroom floors cleaned (swept/mopped/vacuumed) reasonably (minimum once a month)  - Separate pet waste from litter DAILY and change litter box at least TWICE EACH WEEK.

Self-employed plans are expensive compared to the group health insurance we get from employers.Obama care did have some subsidies if your income was below certain threshold.