When I deliver a property to a tenant, I make it a point to tell them that every light bulb is in place and operating.  I expect to get the property back in that same condition.  The lawn is also cut and gutters are clean.  If you give someone a property in run down condition, that's how they will treat it during their tenancy and you'll get back a property in worse shape than you delivered it.  If you give it to them in great shape and make sure they understand that, then they will be much more likely to maintain it in the same or even better condition.  Whether you're self managing or managing for an owner, the property will last longer and command higher rent.  Don't be a slumlord - take some pride in your properties whether you own them yourself or are managing for a client.