Investing via RE investing company, syndication, etc.

[Kenneth LaVoie]

This is kind of a diluted question, but there are some things I've been curious about lately. We own 43 units, divesting 5 of them to tweak our portfolio, then when we get our first "great tax return" (from banker's view) this spring, we are moving to the next level, so I want to get as much knowledge as possible under my belt.

1. I've always believed in diversification but am not really willing to put in the hours learning a new market(s). It was (is) exhausting learning the one I'm in. I'm not sure I want to do it all over again. BUT ... is it safe to keep all your eggs in one basket, one area?

2. There are many big companies out there that buy tons of distressed realestate, turn it around, and allow you to invest for x% return. I see so many of these companies advertised in magazines like "apartment finance" etc. Are these viable alternatives for a portion of one's portfolio or just another place to find mediocre returns.

3. Expanding on Question 1, there's someone who posts alot on this forum who would invest on an investors behalf (The Bald Guy). Is this type of strategy worth researching?

4. Finally ... syndication. What sort of "homework" would one need to do to become an investor in a larger apartment complex, like Rich Weese. Being a small owner in a 500 unit building here, a 700 unit building there, etc. might be a great diversifier ... no??

These might sound like newbie questions. But they're things that eat at me, and the answers feel unsettled.

Thanks all, for all you do.