I've come to the conclusion that it is a long game, not so much short term cash flow...I have been considering the strategy as follows:Short Term:Dividends (AT&T, JNJ, etc)C-Class properties with no mortgageMedium Term:DividendsB- Class properties with 15 year mortgageLong Term: DividendsA-Class properties with 30 year mortgageAs time goes on more cash flow is essentially "unlocked" because the tenants eliminated the good debt.

Water pooling near the foundation could exacerbate the problem but is rarely going to be the cause of the problem; if the footers are not on firm soil in the first place, gutter water or normal rain water isn't going to matter as all water will eventually percolate and eliminate air pockets. 

Eliminate property known to be purchased after 6/2008, eliminate known low equity, home value less that $100,000.

I believe you can eliminate your taxes.

This will cut down if not outright eliminate tenant locks outs & reduce your lock change costs at every turnover.Remove ceiling fans & light fixtures with anything like a chain that can be pulled or hung on.

Then start growIng again This is a slower approach for sure but eliminates a massive amount of risk and will allow my growth to be potentIally exponential once the ball gets going and I am are no longer making mortgage payments.

By cutting back on the amount of water sitting around the foundation, you can eliminate a lot of problems.

It's those maniacs that buy homes cash via quit claim deed off of craigslist that really get screwed.Make sure your property manager is a licensed real estate brokerage.Google Clayton Morris and/or Morris Invest for a cautionary tale of what not to do when buying turnkey real estateUnderstand you can not eliminate all risk, only mitigate it.

The evaporator/inside coil can get clogged too, but changing the filter regularly eliminates that problem. 

As a contractor it allows me to see how the potential customer handles themselves (being prompt, navigating a job site, interacting with my guys, etc) and also starts to set the tone of the experience we would have if we work together and potentially eliminate surprises.