Vacancy hurts a bit more, but the biggest issue with renting out large homes is turnover cost.

These investments may be better than a mutual fund, but REITs miss most of the biggest benefits of owning real estate.

I read "guarantees" - for me that is the biggest scam ever and right then and there either hang up the phone or delete and block the email. anytime anyone guarantees anything run and run fast.  

Our portfolio currently cash flows, but cash flow isn’t our top priority right now since we plan to use this portfolio to supplement our retirement in 12 years when I leave the Army.My biggest challenge is committing to an out-of-state market.

Often times, their approval processes are slow.Credit Unions - Their member structure also subsidizes their financial structure so they can also be a source of low-cost financing.

Check out traceestate.com I have been using them and the sourcing company that they incorporated for the last few years.

Just ensure the cost data sources are very clearly documented.

The biggest thing with 5+ units is everything is more expensive, and the inspection requirements (depending on the municipality) are often more rigorous.

The biggest lesson learned was managing stress.

My biggest tip: research, research, research.