While I agree that owning a business is great and I can't not recommend it because I own one and take advantage of it to the fullest extent I can, just like I'm sure you do, I think a far simpler solution is, having less debt.

That is a euphemism for crazy (non-equestrian term).Holding someone accountable for what they have said is not bullying- only a bad tenant would think that.To the extent that I have offended "someone's" delicate sensibilities with my very blunt or forthright advice, it is just that- very blunt and forthright advice.

@Will Dixon CA laws are wide reaching.

One listing I've been eyeing lately is a single wide built in 1992 and its selling for much less than similar properties are.

If you are not doing that, the interest is still considered used for the business/investment purpose as you had the correct intention and signed the contract, and It would be deductible to the extent of the net investment income(Interest, dividend ....) if you itemize deduct in your personal return. 

I have searched far and wide and cannot find anything on how to get a property officially declared "blighted" (or abandoned), other than New Orleans.

I’ve done pretty good in that arena, but this flipping thing really opened my eyes wide.

You likely are not sending enough direct mail to a wide enough group to actually get appointments out of it. 

You get the point, I'm looking far and wide for the best tenants and I have not used a sign in several years and I never have had problem renting.      

Extent of rehab, time on the market, proximity to transportation.Hopefully this works!