I would respectfully let them know you expect it back by 5 PM the next day . if they are not time conscious with the lease, they will probably often be late with the rent

., great to see you taking the reins on self-managing.

Rents are holding, but demand feels softer.Here are some of the things I’m doing now, the same strategies I used back in 2008–2010 when the market cooled:Putting For Rent signs up wherever HOA allows (old-school still works)Teaming up with my property manager to get more exposure and push listings fasterSharing rentals on local Facebook and community groupsOffering small move-in incentives or flexible depositsPricing slightly below market to fill units faster, then adjusting laterAre other landlords doing something similar, or seeing better results with different approaches?

Suffice to say my relative is not guy and he's basically going to donate all of is a state but for sentimental reasons he'd be happy for me to take over his properties as long as he feels like he's getting a little something out of it.

Sorry they did not work out and hopefully the self managing is the solution you need. 

Don't feel bad about that - lots of investors do.

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

That means higher tax rates and possibly self-employment tax.

Guests would feel safe about that. 

That’s a big hit before you even invest in real estate.If you really want to move retirement funds into real estate, look into a self-directed IRA or solo 401(k) instead.