I see it all the time from investors who are trying to pinch pennies.

So if someone comes and steals all the copper, you can't do anything about it.

Sewer lining will work but overtime, the same issue may popup in another location.I periodically treat the sewer line with copper sulfate, which will kill the roots.  

So that house bid up to maybe someone would make 10k on it if it went right... there was roughly 3 million in cashiers checks chasing one 10K deal.. at that time I took my pennies and opened my HML company I thought crap I am better off lending to these folks than competing :)

However, because profits flow through a partnership, the GP can allocate profits on a form K-1 filing, but not distribute a penny.

But I agree with Charlie, you have to be disciplined and manage your budget daily, down to the penny, it's a time suck.However, since 1st mortgage money is so cheap right now, if you had a heloc, you can find ways to earn a larger return with that money than paying off cheap tax-deductible mortgage interest. 

I worked for a multibillion dollar family office with over 2,000 units and office / retail etc.Lawsuits for slipping on the sidewalk when icey are common - owners never paid a penny it was always done through insurance.

Now if they ask, I am more than glad to share my opinion and my research, but I offer nothing and I sugar coat NOTHING.

What about faux copper or tin?

What if criminals kick in the door and start stealing the furnace or the copper?