INSTEAD he would have put out a video talking about how unfortunate it was he had to lay people off.

@Devin Monroe it’s fairly simple, a PM is going to cost somewhere around 10% of rent on a portfolio of 2-4 unit homes so run your numbers accounting for those services.As for maintenance and CapEx, it should be about a wash if you have a solid PM company.

I actually took the washing machine out of my own house and gave it to my tenant.

But it will take time to find the right lender and I'm sure they will have a laundry list of conditions that need be satisfied. 

I would do vinegar based abatement, wash off then 3 coats of primer by Kilz, primer is just...primer.

Was gonna be 5 grand to excavate and fix, but luckily we were able to put in a laundry pump and bypass the underground piping for a lot less money.

Just adding a couple of things for you to consider to add to your research - Regarding the basis step-up, you're correct that under current law, your mom holding it until her death may allow for you to receive it with a full stepped-up basis, washing out all the appreciation during her lifetime. 

Will you plan to add any bathrooms or other plumbing fixtures (i.e, laundry?) 

Offer cloths washing service. 

Many of us prefer our own space or access to a washing machine and dryer or a full kitchen.