That said, I'd like to raise the rent by $25-$50 per month and put them on a 12 month lease with the condition that if they found their home, they can move out once we find a replacement tenant (and we would focus on securing a new tenant ASAP).  

That’s something we will be focusing on first to get things cleaned up (evict some residents, etc).

I can’t believe how many investors are so focused on buying and not how to KEEP THEIR PROPERTIES or KEEP TRACK OF THEIR PROFIT AND LOSS.

That way I could focus exclusively on RE at that time when cash will be king!!!

Focus on these steps consistently and you will accomplish your dreams in no time.

My focus is that rents are below market and bringing them up slowly should not cause any issues.

I had even sold my own home to keep making the payments for the previous 6 months, as I was no longer consulting as I was now focused on this project full time. 

Happy Wife Happy LIfe and no one except some people on BP would be critical of your owning a free and clear asset.. thats all I personally am focused on these days as i head into the twilight of my career NO debt .. and cash flow..

I try and treat all my investments like my business all the time every day because I'm sure most of us who have been in this for any length of time recognize tenants can be very crafty.Hate to say it but when it is applied keeps you focused " always assume a tenant is lying!"

Would consider a flip, but am more focused on properties we can hold onto for a while.