Because it causes one to think about the way they invest, the reasoning behind their investments, and the success and failures their investment tactics and strategies have produced.I make a decision to pursue a real estate investment (or really any investment) based on an evaluation of risk vs return.  

Be aware of tax implications: rental income is taxed in the property’s state and reported on your California return, with deductions for travel, depreciation, and expenses.

Realize most investors are looking for returns now.  

You'll make a much healthier return on your investment that way.If you simply want to buy a home and rent it out longterm, Elk Grove and Roseville are both considered more high-end suburbs and have appreciated significantly over the last decade.

All you need is a 5% cash-on-cash return, which you can find in most markets. 5% of 4.6M = $230kSo it sounds like you can easily hit your goal.

I’ve been working probate leads here in San Diego for some time and your words are right on point…lot of time for sometimes little to no return. 

I was honestly shocked and horrified when you didn't just say something like "Yeah, Scott, I own the frigging building - I raised the capital, formed the entity, am responsible for operations, and plan to deliver the best investor experience (and great returns) that I am capable of for the investors who I've partnered with."

Without knowing any of your financial position of your work or side hustles it is hard to give you exact advice because you may be able to carry these homes until they are paid off and in that case they would provide solid returns, but there are likely better real estate investments out there.  

Even creating a simple model to evaluate potential deals or predict returns could be a fun way to combine your interests while gaining hands-on experience.The most important thing is to start somewhere.

@Jeremy H.there is no need to self manage for the passive investor looking for a fixed NNN return in the 15%+ range.Smart business owners and retirees looking to diversify their investment portfolio are not looking to run a hospitality business.