Even small items like cabinet pull and handles are easy.

If it's truly abandoned, you will notice most/all clothing is gone, there's no high-value items like flat-screen TV or computer, all the food is gone or old, most kitchen items are missing, etc.

Yes, I definitely understand arbitrage and I understand that most people can deduct student loan interest (assuming they itemize their deductions; however most people don't since the standard deduction is usually higher).  

As part of takeover on a new asset, I follow a checklist and work with the third party management company to make sure all the various items are being handled such as:Setup bank accounts, order checksGet all the utility accounts transferredAlert vendors of new ownershipCommunication to tenantsOrder new signageSetup property websiteGet phones and internet setupOrder marketing materialsAny many, many other itemsWe took the asset over at 93% occupancy.The day after closing, increased rents $20 to $30 on all floor plans for new leases and lease renewals.As of 4/22/16, we are 97% pre-leased with the new rents in place.

I understand a modest hold-back to ensure the contractor comes back to clean up any missed items but otherwise I don't understand the logic.

+$100   General Repairs Budget Line Item +/- 5%?  

Especially with smaller items like faucets, don't hesitate to do things that make your life easier and their experience better.

Sound like you have done most of the items.  

In regards to maintenance, when I bought my first property in this market I reached out to several trade businesses and explained my plan in the market and what my expectation would be if I used them, they were very appreciative as no one had ever done that, so as items come up I reach out to these places based on my need and they have been very responsive and eager to grow the relationship.  

That way when those big ticket items hit you, the money is there and magically funded by those tenants and NOT you :)   Great post!