I don't know what they tell you in CA but here in NY we are suppose to reject any sort of income during the time of the eviction.

They don't mention anything about paying payroll taxes, workers comp, complying with laws, etcReal estate agents can have a team around them where they do have employees if they have admin/support or marketing team.Regardless, if you want to interchange small business for commissioned sales people in my post you can.My post was mentioning that service providers in the real estate space are incentivized by their advertisements as it will increase their annual income.

I think the real estate professional strategy works if it is your primary source of income.   

If you're really wanting real estate as a "passive" income I would look more into syndication investing and hard money lending.

You may find this a viable option with rates where they are, especially if your rental income continues to cover the mortgage.Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): If your property qualifies, you could use a HELOC to access the equity without disturbing the current mortgage.

This is how I see it:Single-Family Homes:Pros:Larger pool of potential tenants (families).Simpler management (one tenant, one lease).Often easier to finance.May appreciate faster in some markets.Cons:Only one income stream.Vacancy hits harder financially.Duplexes:Pros:Two potential income streams.Live in one unit and rent the other (house hacking!)

There are areas outside the Tahoe basin with a short drive that can provide for solid short term or long term income streams and still pull in the Tahoe goers.

They’re a great way to generate passive income with minimal hands-on involvement.Looking forward to hearing more about your goals!

This requires an income that allows you to maintain your standard of living throughout your life.

Tax and Legal ConsiderationsUnderstand the tax implications and legal responsibilities associated with rental income.