I have family in Houston, Dallas, and the Valley, I was networking with brokers in San Antonio, but the Taxes seem to be quite high as well in that State, although much favorable laws/regs on the landlord side.

Let's assume your expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancy, etc.) comes to a clean $600 and the property rents for $1,000.

I use my license for multiple activities: Of course- comps, when buying and when selling, tax data- to see what I am about to pay when i own the home ( for long term holdings), check the DOM (days on the market) for the subdivision I am either buying on, or when I plan on selling, etc. 

Who covers the tax bill when they don't pay the tax bill or the insurance? 

Some private lenders like the one I work with doesn't require appraisals on fix and flip/new construction loans and also doesn't require tax returns/W2s.

., I left Anderson for a small firm that will do the actual taxes and then another company that specializes in tax strategy. 

Whether you need a CPA with just three rentals depends on the complexity of your situation and your comfort level with DIY tax prep.If things are pretty straightforward, you might be fine with tax software for now.

I had no idea who we were working with as I was lead to believe it was one of his clients from his tax business.

If 1031 is to be implemented it must be done on the property level.2. 1031 generally does not apply to IRAs since they are tax-exempt. 3.

To defer all tax you must purchase in total at least as much as your net sale.