I don't think $175/month is good in Florida (or anywhere) for 30 percent down, but it also depends on what the rest of the block and area is like and if there is appreciation scale.

Connecting with experienced investors or joining local real estate groups can provide valuable insights and help you avoid costly mistakes.

This is a physical asset, not paper, and it's providing consistent income.Albeit for your not understanding tax laws and depreciation, I'm wondering why there's a question as to what you should keep.You understand capital gains, but I'm pretty sure you're not familiar with depreciation and loan paydown.

I've gotten deals and formed partnerships through some very unorthodox connections over the years.To answer your question, it will always depend on the specifics of the deal in front of me but in general I'd still prefer value-add.

I have found that Redfin actually has pretty good search parameters to where you can look for listings that have been sitting a while that fit your buy box, and you can even do keyword searches for things like "as is", "investor", "seller financing", "guest house", etc. depending on what you are looking for.

:We use the cheapest ones that they provide at Lowe's, our handyman installs.

Even if one has to provide the education to some of the parties as to why a particular creative solution makes a win-win-win for all. 

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!

We also buy at a discount (pricing depending on those qualities). 

Many of these PM's have too much on their plate and are unable to provide you with consistent communication.