It's tough to call out scam artists or anyone without committing libel or slander.Maybe have a sticky that warns in general of this, and encourage people to post their concerns and specifically ask advice from the more veteran members on here.

I would encourage your friend to get rid of this manager and perhaps the property.

It is encouraging :)We almost have the eviction process complete - just waiting on the WRIT so that we can move the tenant out.

In that scenario renting may have been the better path.Unless you see a huge upside where you bought it for a steal where a quick sell makes sense 2 years later, I would encourage you to think longer term - even if you move.  

Stacy, Be encouraged, you're in a temporary set-back on a worthy road to wealth-building & financial freedom.

We have all the same rules and procedures and use QBO for as our accounting software with all forms of payment accepted- online, ach and regular mail.We encourage communication. 

I came across Rent to Retirement through the BiggerPockets forum and podcasts and was encouraged by numerous positive reviews.

Hi Margarita-Great question.There are many mental blocks and friction points to buying your first property.First off, just buying property outside of a first or second home to use is not done by most people and buying your first home is a major purchase for most people.That means the people in our immediate sphere of influence are not thinking about buying investment property, they see it as risky and out of a sense of protecting you or themselves encourage you not to do it.I remember having the same mental blocks and fears you probably do thinking about buying your first property or first investment property.The most critical thing to overcoming these mental blocks is self education and surrounding yourself with the best team of people to help you.An investor friendly Realtor who can refer you to an investor friendly lender, title company or closing office, property inspector, property manager, and insurance agent.Real estate is relational and having the best team will keep you out of the weeds.To Your Success!

I'm not encouraging you to overpay, but that is a great way to talk yourself out of taking action.

I have heard there are some local financial institutions which encourage investing in certain areas and are willing to provide some incentives.