If you are asking why real estate, it's not for you because you are asking people to convince you about an asset class you somehow have determined to be not good for you.

Usually, the confidence comes from more reps (seeing more homes and being more of an asset hunter not a spreadsheet warrior) and going to local meetups so you can meet all the other people nearby who are doing what you can't get yourself to do.Ok Elizabeth, Ready for it? 

IMO 6 months is nothing compared to other illiquid assets.

But, I prefer 3rd party over self management right now because I have higher priorities and just have to purchase properties with thicker margins to absorb the added vacancy and repair costs. 

Personally, I would prefer to use the HELOC approach.

@Dustin Horner you should be contracting maintenance work and creating a preferred list of vendors as @Phillip Austin has recommended.The first person you hire to help you should be to handle what you LEAST like to do yourself or has the greatest time savings for you!

You can certainly own multiple assets in the same LLC, but I would be careful about operating a business and owning other real estate or investments in that LLC.

It's pricey and competitive, but stay in your own backyard, consistently look for deals, and you'll find a great asset.

Replacing a bathtub with a shower can make narrow bathrooms feel larger and more modern.That said, consider keeping at least one bathtub in the building for market appeal, as families with small children or certain renters may prefer it.

Low appreciation may make the RoI from these assets low over long term, though they will cash flow on day 1.