The U.S. has been doing the opposite to please voters.

Most people think that they are a holes but my experience has been opposite. 

Quit the opposite, most investors should NOT manage their own property but, if you have a skill set that is inline with what is needed as a PM, then by all means.One other point is that when the PM comes to you and says they have to spend X because of some issue with the building, if you have managed your own property before you will be in a more informed position to give the go ahead for a Capital Expense.

I just can't fathom the opposition to it. 

I’m sure other hosts will chime in with the exact opposite of what I’ve suggested. 

@John Morgan I work my contractors the complete opposite.

Foundation Issues, Termites, Mold, etcDifferent Ways to Fill Vacancies:Tenant Referral Program: $100 Open HousesSpecials for SoldiersBannersCorporate Outreach ProgramsFlyers in laundromats, hair and nail salonsAds in the local college newspaper Ads in local ethnic newspapersClassified AdsStrong tenant retention program How To Raise Rents:Shop The Competition to learn market ratesGet the exterior looking good, new lighting Repair the common areasAudit Your Rent RollWhen repairs are complete, approach tenants and give a small bonus renewalsYou should always raise rents, even if just $25 a year, to get tenants in the expectation of some sort of increase. $20 a month on 10 units = $200 a month which is $2400 a year which on a 10 cap increases your value by $24,000.

Hi Jesse, I'm in the opposite end of the state (Springfield).

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!

So while there are certainly predatory landlords out there, it is usually the opposite problem with the tenants being the ones abusing the system.