He is also self-employed but has been too "aggressive" with expenses and shown little profit (I know, I know, but can't undo that now.)Three mortgage brokers have told him there is NO WAY he'll be able to get a mortgage.

Educate the tenant on how to use ant bait stations.

It's a matter of survival of the fittest in the industry, with good agents staying and others seeking alternative employment.

It's a long-term strategy to basically make $1 do the job of $2--you get life insurance (not tied to your employment) AND you can still use those same dollars towards RE investing. 

There's lots of factories/warehouses out there so heavy demand for rentals with the employment going on.

Population is growing aggressively and jobs are moving here especially with major employers like Intel, Google, Amazon, Nationwide, etc.

My current employer is sponsoring my green card application, but the whole process will take another 4 years to complete.

I'd also love to hear about your journey in real estate and how you got started.To be clear, I’m not seeking funding, employment, or any commitments from you.

Are you self employed ?

I had to get a w2 to get out of the mess I got in being self employed in RE.