I think I was having a hard time seeing the value of turnkey properties because of my personality style with regards to investing and wanting to trade up quickly.

I have two phones, one for business and one for personal.

Networking is the key to growth...I am always down for coffee if you want to connect in person. 

It separates your personal assets from your business, providing a safeguard if any legal issues arise related to tenants or the property.

I tried a big out of state flip due to living in a HCOL area and it failed miserably because I couldn't keep eyes on it and didn't have a good/honest team in place.

.✅ More Control – You’ll personally handle tenant screening, rent collection, and property upkeep, ensuring everything is done to your standards.✅ Stronger Tenant Relationships – Being involved directly allows you to build rapport with your tenants, which can lead to better communication and longer leases.Cons of Self-Managing❌ Time-Consuming – Dealing with maintenance requests, late-night emergencies, and tenant disputes can quickly become a second job.❌ Legal Risks – Chicago has strict landlord-tenant laws.

I personally believe that a better way to jump into mid term rentals is to take a course on buidling a property management company or cohosting business where you bring your skillset to the table without the intial investment into all the furniture and leases.

If the IRS has a Form 1098, they assume that the person listed on the form made the payments, and they move on. 

They actually have a licensed person in California.

beauty is in the eye of the beholder..