If they are VERY professional, they will have their processes in writing as verification that policies are enforced equally and fairly by their entire staff.6.

To identify a proficient real estate CPA, investors should prioritize professionals with a proven track record in handling real estate portfolios, transactions, and tax planning.Look for CPAs who stay abreast of evolving tax codes related to real estate and possess a comprehensive understanding of deductions, credits, and depreciation strategies unique to the industry.When considering a CPA or tax professional, it's crucial to find someone who aligns with your financial goals and understands the complexities of real estate transactions.

Target ReturnsWhile target returns are crucial, these should be discussed only with investors—not brokers or others helping you find deals.Sample Investment CriteriaHere’s an example of well-defined CCC:Location: Primary and secondary cities in the Southeast with population growth.Type & Class: Class C garden-style or walk-up workforce housing with repositioning opportunities.Age: 1980s construction or newer (case-by-case for older).Price: $5M–$12M, requiring $1.5M–$3M in funds.Size: 100+ units.Cap Rates: Market rates.Roof Type: Pitched roofs preferred.Value-Add: Opportunities for improvements or better management.Why This MattersBy creating crystal clear criteria, you:Avoid wasting time on deals that don’t align with your goals.Build trust with brokers and partners by demonstrating a focused investment strategy.Increase your chances of finding deals that meet your financial and operational objectives.I'll be posting each chapter as I go through them so you can follow along from my notes and we can discuss different strategies.

Being able to be on site and able to commute 20-30 hours a week on the project is crucial for me 

Not all PM companies are equal - not just in service but in helpfulness.

Interest rates between a HEL and a refi are comparable, the equity in the property is equal to the value of the property and I only need about 50% to purchase another property.

Lots of people go that route, but there's probably an equal number that wouldn't risk their home and prefer to use other people's money. 

The resources and books you mentioned, like the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide and The Book On Rental Property Investing, sound like excellent starting points.Prioritizing financial stability and eliminating debt is crucial, and I agree that a solid financial foundation is key to successful investing.

My market (Tampa, FL area) 3/2 outperform 2/2 just as 4/2 outperform 3/2, assuming all other things are equal. 

Or do they apply an equalization ratio.