If I remember correctly your burial plot is one thing they cannot take from you, a most recent example being Nicholas Cage's plot in New Orleans.

But, as others have said, cash flow in this environment is tough and for new investors, they can be baited into cash flow now which means more difficult tenants, lower C to D areas, and expectant capital expenditures.

Some of the main reasons are that operating expenses, acquisition costs, and capital expenditures take a substantial amount of any would-be profits.

Capital Expenditures (10-15% of Income)Rule of Thumb: Reserve 10-15% of your income for capital expenditures (CapEx) like roof replacement, HVAC systems, or major renovations.Why: Regularly contributing to a CapEx fund ensures you have the cash on hand for significant improvements or replacements, preserving the value of your properties.5.

The expenditures occur long before any income.  

This is really extreme for such a tight time frame... and cost us about $45,000 in capital expenditures.  

What my accountant did is, she declared most of these as Capital Expenditures, then she turned around and depreciated them in one year per the 2017 tax cuts and jobs act.  

Like many (most) businesses it requires an investment of capital; money expenditure for ongoing marketing; management of operating, marketing and professional personnel; keeping accounting records and filing tax returns; established sales practices; constant monitoring of goals, budgets, and productivity; establishment and implementation of operational systems; and providing customer service.  

Assuming you plan to hold these, you will have capital expenditures. 

Calculate the After Repair Value (ARV), or the expected market value following repairs, and estimate the expenditures associated with those improvements.