A better method is to be added as an authorized user on a well aged credit card account that has low usage and perfect payment history.

A better method than using percentages in my opinion would be to total up everything you think the property will need to have replaced during your hold period for example 1 roof, 2 water heaters, 2 floors, 2 furnaces etc., 1 driveway, 1 porch, 20 windows... whatever Capex you anticipate doing while you own it, and total that up then divide the number by the number of months you plan to hold and use that as your Capex allocation instead of a percentage of rent.

It won't surprise anyone to know that there is a fair amount of hyperbole out in the media these days.Fortunately, NY lawmakers have not mandated (yet) the method of payment or lease terms that landlords must accept as part of running THEIR business.So, for example, I only offer M2M leases, and the local HA requires a year lease to issue vouchers. 

I look forward to hearing about everybody’s experiences on this method of REI.

I still believe CA will have quality tenants comparing to other states. i have to start my journey on the investment.Where do you invest in OOS?

Use the upgrades however do not expect shingles of any quality to realistically last 35/40 years. 25 year shingles will safely last 15 years depending on the climate, attic ventilation, direction roof is facing etc. 40 year might last 25 but that may be a stretch.Metal would be preferred longevity wise however cost prohibitive for a rental.

If it is a C+ or approaching B class finding better quality tenants may be easier than falling back on S8.

Ask their previous customers if they were on time, easy to work with, and if they did a quality job. 

I'm curious what methods most investors in the area use to successfully source their deals.The rehab process is probably where I could use the most guidance given I have no background in the industry.

@Rush Wall, I have not used direct mail, but heard of others using that method successfully.