If you also provide something of value to the remaining tenants that makes living in these units better for them (more favorable rental agreement terms, quick attention to maintenance/repair needs, an upgrade that they have been longing for, a kind and respectful management style, etc.) they will be less likely to view you as a threat to their security and well being.Also, don't think about raising the rent anytime soon.

Anyone have recommendations for someone in Atlanta who is good with ranch style homes like in the Decatur or Chamblee areas? 

Make sure you read the reviews and can follow their "life style" commitments.

We have a 'key style' box on most of our washing machines, and they seem to be inserting something in these and levering the heck out of them to break them loose...We replaced a few boxes this month (for about $100 a piece) and they did the same again.

I can only talk from my experience.I am a kind of person that looks for style, I don't care if it is cheap or custom made.

I would stay out of noth st louis city its a different world up there on par with East St Louis the rate of returns look sexy but they're hard to achieve with high turn over.

The difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to failure."

@Devin BerrianIf the attic is assessable outside of the existing units, is it big enough for a loft-style efficiency / bachelor apartment?  

Cape styles as shown in pictures beneath will be more expensive up front, but you can actually drop the total per square foot build price after finishing the upstairs. 

Depends on location, style of house, finishes, types of contractors, GC or self-managed, time of year, permitting costs, local codes, utility requirements, your negotiating skill and about a dozen other factors.