Nords, thanks for the tip. Frankly what has changed is that in those 9 years, I have gotten married, had a daughter, and as a result view any money spent as "our" money, whether or not it's technically covered by the rents. Money put out on things that aren't necessary, or things that don't help the overall value of the home, don't help us reach our financial goals. That's all that has really changed. I still strive to provide them good service, but am starting to realize that I'm not being a slumlord if I say no to certain things. Also, the house in a great neighborhood in the DC suburbs, with good schools, walking distance to employers, shopping, bus service and a major hospital so it should be easy to rent when they leave.