"subject to" / "lease option" / "wraparound mortgages"https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/05/1...kind of a bit of a shot in the dark at least without already having a network of possible buyers or hard money lenders to save you if things get hairy and also because its going to be hard to find a deal where the owner has incentive to sign over a deed to you without you paying extra for a property but, its an option.Just dreaming something up here but - worst case you get lots of people saying no right?

And of the houses we've looked at the two best prospects have been smoked in (one heavily).

The dark wood bed, the grandma curtains. etc. 

The $200 is a lot but they tend to not turn on lights while one of them complains its dark, complain about the neighbors, etc.

Both are pretty dark with limited light.  

We lost three tenants, all three due to our non-smoking policies more so than our rent increases. 

You need to get to know the attitude and quality of tenant, whether they promptly report issue, to know how long of a leash you can put them on.I will give notice to inspect to check fire/smoke detectors furnaces etc. and while there insure there are no leaks in pluming, windows etc. basically make sure everything is working OK and have a friendly chat with tenant while observing the general condition of the unit.If I get a feeling of resentment from the tenant I simply explain I am a pro active landlord and am concerned about the maintenance of their home etc. etc.

Leading with a smile and great care performing customer service seems to light the way through dark or rough patches in this business.I look forward to hearing some other examples, hopefully ones we can all use and grow as a group.  

My current house is light grey on the bottom and dark grey on top.

Make sure all the smoke smell is gone before you start doing any remodeling or you will have to rip up what you did.