THE SECOND MONTH Somehow during the Second Month, when the newness wears off and the happiness falls into a routine, the new Tenants become confused.

I seriously doubt the new fancy high-rise is your competition at all...

The landlord/tenant relationship does not have to be adversarial, and framing the "inspections" as routine maintenance that you take care of so the tenant doesn't have to makes it sound like you're the nice guy.If you haven't been inside in years, how do you know what's going on?

I routinely pass out the lead information booklet and have the tenants sign the disclosure forms. 

We travel often abroad and when we are away from routine, she is a lot more open to listen about “crazy” ideas since she is away from stress and problems.

Let them know you will schedule something in a few months when you are there to do xyz (some routine maintenence) basically to see if there is anything in the house that needs attention.

That doesn’t have to mean replacing siding and/or paying a bunch for fancy paint, you may he able to knock it out in an afternoon by renting a pressure washer.There are plenty of other similar considerations inside, but it’s also dependent upon the sub-market.

I usually have starter type homes (so nothing high end or fancy). 

Don't worry so much about being fancy. focus on providing something that is comfortable, clean, and with the things people would expect at home and you will be fine.

I have not had issues otherwise and a routine mid lease inspection was unremarkable.That Sunday I was working.