I’ve never managed a property but I’ve lived here for 4 years and I’ve only had to call the management company once or twice for questions, and the maintenance issues have been minimal since the buildings are in very good condition and new owners tend to make improvements in the first year of ownership.

@Paul SmytheI’d turn them into enclosed porches with 2 very big windows and a full-lite glass screen door on each side, then side the outside in an accent color (feeling dark blue).

How did you back out of the existing offer with minimal penalties, if at all possible?

The property has dark hardwood floors, and resurfacing them would be an option. however, im also considering protecting them with carpeting or waterproof laminate flooring. 

Hunter,Without knowing your goals, everyone's answer is a shot in the dark. 

Investing in your first investment property will be like trying dark chocolate for the first time... it may be sweet and leave a bitter taste in your mouth, but you will become addicted.

To me, this boils down to finding a person or business that offers a turnkey solution.You can work with companies that offer completely rehabbed properties upfront which minimizes how much you need to learn and how much time you need to devote but at reduced equity and cash flow. 

Implementing a tenant retention plan can help to minimize the turnover, and ultimately reduce those costs.

Further, the effects of sunlight, heat, and humidity on viral survival all serve to minimize the risks outside.

It will also give you more insight into why you pay a PM each month.I hope your HVAC repairs are minimal and best of luck to you.