We monitor all personal and business credit cards closely and they have helped us build up our credit score and fund opportunities. 

A good appraiser will not just average the comps, they may do a weighted average or base their final opinion more heavily toward a more similar comp, but more than one good comp is always preferable.Now with that said, as a longtime appraiser/broker/investor, I have seen some pretty "questionable" appraisals, so it can be a shot in the dark sometimes - unfortunately.

This is why a good inspector is worth his weight in gold.

Buy for the real market price, these are carefully monitored and there are fines and jail time for mistakes.

It's just a way of monitoring to ensure they maintain insurance."

Main thing is to rank higher (closer to page 1) you can use rank breeze to monitor thatMain thing is price, photos, and amenities. 

That provides a buffer for the tenant and it enables you to monitor whether your tenant is actually a problem or if someone is exaggerating the situation.I would also ensure any renter is given a printed or electronic copy of the HOA rules.

To your question, there is nothing better than in person meet ups. face to face always holds more weight for long term relationships.

However, if you plan to target students, you cannot change your location,  but if you can offer a bundle of amenities which makes you attractive and gives you the pick of tenants.In our student rooming house we have the following on offer:furnished bedrooms (bed, dresser, desk & chair) - one unit has single/twin beds, the other has double/queen beds.Utilities included.Internet included - we need an internet connection for our building monitoring, but do not need much bandwidth.  

I've been quoted anywhere from $25,000 to $35,000 (oh, and a new water line - about $10,000) and monthly alarm monitoring fees (between $35-$50/mo).