LOTS of lookie-lous and showings are non-productive for both me and the applicant.Another benefit is the application shows their income and that's a  prequalifier to being accepted (no, this does not include CR/BG reports) as I require 2x the rent. 

I would like to speak with you and maybe we can benefit from each other. 

Generally it is best to own rentals in your own name and use ret. account for some other alternative investments such as trust deeds or private lending (because there are no tax benefits when owning rentals in your retirement account as opposed to owning in under your name), but every situation is different.

I don't want to force them to move, but I feel I must make some adjustments to rent rates as well as talk to my insurance agency.

One mistake I made was I put too much time and made my bid pricey, after a few great comments, and giving out favors in exchange for feedback, we have adjusted to an "investor mindset" and have been hitting the sweet spot where it brings everyone to the same plate.Lessons I learned during this learning curve was, not all want "retail" quality finishes (where all our commercial and government contracts are of the only concern), they are more concerned about time and money.

My understanding (as a newbie) was that the appraisal was for the benefit of the lender, the home inspection for the buyer.  

While the exchange rate will benefit them during the repatriation, when the have to turn around an purchase a second U.S.A. property, they exchange rate will take another bite.I'm another Canadian who seeks a vendor carry (owner financing) whenever possible.  

I believe the benefit of the commercial is that they are focused more on the cash flow of the property rather than my W-2 income.  

This gives the ability to maximize tax benefits.

Mortgage broker with totally destroyed credit - $900Single Mom with SSI plus outside income $850 - has one childInsurance Adjuster for Major Firm - 20 years - $750 for room plus garage space.Just a small sampling but gives you idea....much of the success in this area comes to truly likely people, having some street smarts and filing a largely untapped need.Happy to chat about it sometime.