I'm in desperate need of a good REI planner or organizer for starters.

I don't have an intricate strategy, with demographic surveys, IRR and NPV calculations, leveraged buyouts, and city planners on my pay roll.

Building inspectors and planners do not typically drive around looking for violations.

I was a Financial Planner.

He asked our financial planners about REI and they were clueless.

This brings you to the point of RE PLANNING from a good CPA or other estate planner for the proper setup when you decide to go that route.

Your financial planner, your attorney, your tax advisor, and your estate planner may each have a different answer to your quesiton.You should get all these people together in the same room and have them reach a mutual consensus.

This is a discussion to have with your attorney, your estate planner, your CPA, and your tax advisor -- preferably with all in the same room at the same time.

Best advice for your unique situation might be to consult a bona-fide CPA/Retirement Planner, who is very well versed in real estate.

The general recommendation from many financial planners is six months reserves for anyone, investor or not, and longer for those with variable income.