We also have our units professionally inspected, so still a lot to do after you find the rental prospects 

I'm already having prospective applicants say that they drove by and didn't like the neighbors and would thus not want to view the property.

My mortgage is $1296, so giving the prospective tenants a $500 discount goes from me receiving $200/month to me paying $200-$300 out of my pocket for mortgage. 

Prospecting calls, Chamber of Commerce events, or just random acquaintances.

(study the art of word pictures - many years ago I worked for the Dale Carnegie organization - they talked about the value of word pictures - how to put your prospect in that picture - showing him using and enjoying and benefiting from your proposal)  Try it.I like to show sellers that even if they are not getting the up-front cash they expect, the owner financed mortgage and payments they are receiving don’t have to be passive – once the seller has trust in your seller financing proposal - reach your goals is possible - (ALWAYS PUT IT IN WRITING -don’t expect a verbal yes – melt everything down to writing and knowledge of answering seller’s objections – this is a crucial moment in your negotiations. – Take your time.

When doing this just try to keep in mind the market conditions as it relates to the prospective area. 

I am equally excited and scared at the prospect of being a newbie landlord, Lol!

The numbers on the duplex are as follows:Purchase Price: $60,000Appraised at: $80,000Remaining Mortgage: $45,000 at 4.625% for 14 more yearsMonthly Payment: $370.28The purchase price of the prospective property is $73,000.  

With that said, it may behoove you to be a bit more proactive in your search and prospect for leads via direct mail, cold calling, door knocking, etc.

Your best bet is to screen your prospective tenants to the best of your ability and hopefully weed out future headaches.