Starting RE investing in an area you know best is always an advantage than trying to invest in a state you've never been and bonus points if you learn that market and know what to expect from the investments.

So I guess anything during the offseason would be considered a bonus in this market.

It seems like there's a lot of variability in the category but I'd appreciate any experience this community would be willing to share!

While reading is always great I wanted to share the advise that I got early on in trying to break into commercial (not that I've been successful breaking into that category but I like to think I'm on the way). 

(Sometimes depend on the market, I even throw in some bonus such as if they sign a lease renewal before end of the week we can get them some rent credit for the upcoming month, if the market is hot then I won't say anything) 

Is there a software out there that you use or recommend to enter all of the expenses into that will help with totaling all the expenses accurately into proper categories for year end tax stuff or by each project?   

US companies added 184,000 jobs across most job categories and wages rose, the most since July.

The bonus is if the price of the house goes up over time and you also make money from appreciation when you sell.If you hire a PM, you will bring in less money; however, you will have more time to be with your family. 

Can't use bonus depreciation but could use accelerated depreciation and get most (not all) of my rental income tax free.

So add 0.25-0.5% for a high LTV, another 0.625% for 2-4 unit and 1.0% for high balance (I assume this falls into the high balance category) and you're right around the rate you were quoted.