I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.

Hey Matt, I own 2 duplexes here in Columbus, Ohio and I would say that buying duplexes in an appreciating area would probably be your best bet.

Thats a huge accomplishment, it not like anyone with $150 and an internet connection can do that. 

I bet a good amount of money that he never calls either.

Most property owners that get into the start of foreclosure sell before it becomes REO...the internet makes it much easier for owners to sell instead of take the foreclosure route.

But one thing is for certain when you syndicate you now have 1000 partners who all have access to the internet for all things good bad or indifferent.How One handles the tough times is very important to reputation management as we ALL go through tough times if you have been in this business long enough.  

Wow Saber rattling letters to their LP's that will quiet some but other I bet it will have the opposite effect on .The internet/SM cuts both ways great tool for expanding ones business or it can tear it down.

Sticking with one state, once you fully understand it and learn all of the laws is your best bet.

But I'm willing to bet that what current C4D holder is trying for, so his $ is a joke too. 

I completely agree with the other answers that getting someone to help you is a good bet, having someone in your corner who understands the intricacies of the tax code rather than DIYing that should save you more money (and time) than you're paying them ever since I got my first rental I've had a pro doing my taxes but kuddos to you for being able to juggle so much for so long on your own!!