Some of these things won't cost you much, but your guests will love them.I would go conservative on interior upgrades...just make them comfortable and things that a fishing crowd might appreciate...I would not focus on the finishes per se.

I wouldn't ask the potential tenant for bank statements per se... but I would ask for a few paystubs as I would with all tenants. 

We do not monitor this per se, but would address it if we learn--from neighbors, others--if it is violated. 

@Cody McCraw I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on buying in NW and SE Roanoke for rental income.

Review this IRS link, it will help you understand what type of income considered self-employed:https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-se...

I've not had a mentor per se, but have relied on many various veteran note investors to fill in the gaps of my knowledge base as I figured out what I needed to know as I proceeded on a deal of so. 

I do however live in CA but invest in the SE (FL) so I will say some thing are a little different in that area as he mentioned.On the insurance it is high in the SE due to hurricanes and sink holes but not that high usually.

This is my first real estate venture, so I want to pose the question to the community for advice.The duplex is in SE Tacoma area and listed at $245,000.  

It's in the SE corner of Dallas County.

My dad will be moving to SE Michigan (Metro Detroit).