I put in a row of evergreens and then put down plastic and covered it with stones.

I like the vinyl plank wood floors everywhere, so no need for carpet cleaning and tenants seems to like it better than carpet.For countertops, the most durable and cost efficient is a plastic laminate, but you have to go with the finish that matches your neighborhood.I've noticed that things like sinks and toilets and fixtures just have to look decent, but can be on the cheaper side.

We all know the hassles and costs associated with tenant turnover, and I would do what I could to avoid that situation.If she has been a decent tenant so far, perhaps consider buying a life-size plastic owl and place it in the tree.  

http://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Security-Shape-Camer...Which way is it pointing? 

Many times the plastic/rubber flap inside the tank doesn't close properly so the toilet runs and runs. 

And mommy and daddy will probably be the ones paying for it anyway.Be sure and tell them no grill on a balcony or under the roof and not on a covered patio.  

They change the rules (including whether or not you can continue to rent out your unit), they change the amount of the dues, they harass you about the plants you have on your patio....Take it from one who bought a condo expecting to live there forever, and sold it two years later - because of the HOA.Condos are also harder to finance, so they're harder to sell, too.

After this issue I contacted my other tenants .Surprise …surprise ..One tenant had a leaking kitchen faucet and a huge grill in his patio.

I've got a few:- Slight crack on the plastic knobs on a sink faucet.

They claimed someone broke in and broke their glass door to the patio and then damaaged their washer and dryer.