Pest control checks. 

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.

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.

Quiet hours / noise control: Must comply with the county’s noise ordinance (example: exterior noise not continuously above specified decibel limits). 

How much are rent-controlled renters generally accepting as buyouts to vacate the apartments these days? 

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.

Another person was right however that you sacrifice control over the investment - that's the price of passive investing.