If I were looking for a PM, I would want them to know what their vacancy rate is, because that means they're conscious of long rentals are sitting on the market. 

Moreover, I would think the home inspectors who have a relationship with my realtor will be (either unconsciously or consciously) motivated to help their friend gain his/her commission. 

I provide washers and dryers with my rentals and it was a conscious and considered choice and to me an EASY choice to make. 1) Why would a tenant want to own a washer and dryer?

You have to be super super careful and conscious about how you do things to get liability protection....and almost all the time I see people using LLC who think they likely have protection and I'm sure they don't. 

So, even with a general contractor you need to be conscious of how to manage the project.

But I like the comments made that simply being conscious of the existing neighborhood can go a long way. 

My husband and I are VERY conscious about using daylight instead of electricity all day (haha), and try to be economical with hot water, etc.

Some do it consciously and aggressively... while others subconsciously and  passively.

Being conscious on unnecessary business costs are key areas to focus on during a recession.

If I'm conscious about my activities, my observations and my goals, then YES.