The thermostat is located in one of the units, and I just tell them to keep it at a reasonable temp and remember that the other unit runs off it, and don't turn it off when you're out of town.

The reason I ask is because it will be rented directly to the business.

Dallas, along with many other markets will likely see some rocky times in the near future, but if you are buying right, in my opinion there is no reason to wait. 

So I’m a vote against for the reasons I outlined.

Ideally, I’d like to buy a SFH or small multi unit with a VA loan where we can buy at a discount or force appreciation with some renovations while living there to gain equity quickly, then rent it out or sell when we move.Any advice on some areas with a reasonable commute to the Naval Station, good schools and low crime?

Is there a reason why you wouldn't "inherit" most of the clients if you simply hung your license somewhere else when he retired, but got his blessing to market yourself as offering a similar service? 

There are several good reasons to invest in Kansas City.1.

There should only be 2 reasons why your properties aren't getting rented; either the properties are not being advertised, or the rent is too high for the location/condition of the properties. 

The 3 main reasons I would like to remove them are: their rent is way below fair market, they are very filthy/hoarders, and I want to renovate the entire property.

Bob I have had a issue with floating floors being placed under the cabinets before, if they get wet by any means it going to cause a lot of future problems. so its better in my option to cut around the cabinets especially considering there are water lines in the sink cabinet, so exposure to water at some point is likely. although if it is tile I always place it beneath cabinets and vanities so for the simplicity of changing them out should a tenants destroy them or the dog eats the cabinet/vanity which actually recently happen, the only issue your going run into when you cut around the cabinets is if you need to replace it for any reason the cabinets are never the exact some size so thats why I prefer to use tile in any areas that would have cabinetry. hope this hopes and best of luck!