But like to keep myself sharp by staying tuned to the market. 

So, this might be a bit radical - and would definitely take some conversations with your wife - but here's what I would do:You mentioned friends and family in the area - I would stay with them on a month-to-month rental basis.

Again, because there was an exchange the find were nearly there.Account ClosedYes I am managing the property myself, and from my experience units do not stay vacant for over a month.  

I already know that your tax pro will say "no" to depreciating light bulbs and repainting in between tenants (& they will LOL at the notion of depreciating a $2.50 light bulb), but start the "fight" there so that when you're done "meeting in the middle" maybe the new carpets and new water heater get "depreciated" instead of being a "repair." 

I think you’d have been better off staying at 525.

Do the units have carpet, hardwood, or vinyl?

I have a portable wood stand I set it on that stays on the job site.

Know the difference between good debt and bad debt - stay "Bad" debt free.5.

It's a very exciting market to explore because there's a ton of revitalization and new outer-ring development happening simultaneously, and we expect it to stay that way for quite a while.

Stay active on Bigger Pockets so we can see your journey and so you can learn from some seasoned investors.