I'm not 100% sold on being a landlord, but listening to the Bigger Pockets Money podcast is gradually changing my mind.If anyone has any resources, let me know.Thanks.Hey @Geoff Engel, welcome to the BP Forum! 

Regardless of how a certain asset class is doing, an investor like yourself can ALWAYS find a good deal in any type of property.Now, my general suggestion for all of my CFO clients is the gradually move up the unit spectrum/asset type as you build up your portfolio.

I've been gradually increasing rent.

Gradually scale by researching high-growth markets, partnering with experienced investors, and exploring financing options like SBA loans.

Or we gradually perform high-quality updates for a live-in flip, then roll the equity into a new home.Regarding rental income, we aim to boost income, lower our effective tax rate by generating more low tax-drag income with rental income (since there’s not much we can do to lower out W2 tax bills) and have retirement cash flow.To compare the financial impact over 10-20 years, we want to analyze renting versus flipping.

This is obviously much better than $1,400 per month.On top of that, you will now get 2x the depreciation write-off so your taxes should go down.On top of that, you will now get 2x the appreciation when real estate price go up.On top of that, your tenants are helping you pay down the loan, initially at about $100/mo for both properties, which gradually gets better and better.On top of that, you now have more units so if one or two goes vacant, you have more renters covering the losses of the vacant units.If you want to keep these properties, I would do a cash-out refi and go buy more rental real estate.

Start small, evaluate results, and adjust gradually.

The property when it was built in 1980 was an A property but as time, and ownership changed it has gradually gone down the scale. 

Focus on key areas first (like floors, walls, kitchen, or bathroom), which may help you handle the costs more gradually, even if it means moving in furniture or updating fixtures down the line.Also, since the tenant left it in rough shape, be sure to document all the damage (photos, receipts) in case you decide to pursue reimbursement through their security deposit or in court.

I suggest gradually assembling a reliable maintenance team that includes HVAC, plumbing, and other essential services.Tenants are responsible for providing access to the property.