And while nothing is foolproof the most consistent method of finding good vendors is relying on OTHER real estate investors that have worked with those vendors.

What Nathan said.You are following the red herring of the (real or imagined) roach problem, but the tenant just told you they cannot afford a $35/mo. rent increase in an under market rent apartment!

I have lived in Arkansas my whole life, lived in all parts of the state, and have been in real estate for the last 8 years here. 

This structure combines efficiency with enhanced privacy and protection for your real estate investments.Ultimately, there are plenty of ways to structure your investment real estate strategy, and the best approach often depends on your specific goals, the nature of the transaction, and your preferences for simplicity versus control

Warning:If you depreciate a property down near zero and then have to sell your property at a loss during a situation of distress...You could end up giving all the proceeds to the bank AND owe the IRS a big chunk of money for recapture.Long-term tax planning with real estate needs to be coupled with risk management and making sure you don't lose any properties.

I'm the same way, I'm originally from Portland Oregon and moved out to a new real estate market for this exact reason. 

With your real estate background in TX and NC, you’re in a great position to transition into investing.

I've sold several homes in this area for my real estate clients too, and they've all been happy up here. 

We pride ourselves in keeping the forums positive, helpful, and focused on real estate (please, no politics, religion, etc.).

Depending on the type of commercial you want to get into my suggestion is to go work for a company that does commercial real estate as learning from people who do it and getting paid at the same time is not a bad strategy