Pest control checks. 

Both give you camera access, door/window sensors, and app-based control for under $25 a month, or even self-monitor for free.

Resources like ValuePenguin and LendingTree can help you compare your operating costs across cities.No Rent Control: Rent control can limit your ability to raise rents, screen tenants, or evict non-performing tenants.

Many investors I know let the PM handle the day to day but still source their own contractors for larger repairs or rehab work to keep costs under control.

I have various toys (tomorrow taking one of the boats out with my son just to cruise around).

If control matters, avoid DSTs and target stabilized small multifamily or newer SFH portfolios with clean ops.

(Yes we were sucking wind from 2008-11)Honestly, we learned about them by accident.I was visiting a “whale,” in the central Florida market who bought at the steps and beat all bids, even if they were too high to maintain control of the steps.That day, while I was at his office, he lost 3 bids in a row.He started swearing up and down, and I had to know how he kept losing.  

It gives you control over managing your investments, but it comes with a huge amount of work.

Controller, CFO.  

The edge is simple math and control: more doors per roof, easier to nudge NOI with small value adds, and multiple exits if one unit turns.