You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on, and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.

I serve on committees when able, and generally be understanding that a program aligned with our federal HUD is going to have it's inefficiencies.

Understanding what a good deal looks like.

@Don Konipol, you bring up a good point both about diversification and active versus passive investments.To add to your point, it isn't just about diversifying in the way you note, although I understand since you are talking to a real estate investment forum.  

I think you can through BP or through the aforementioned REI meet ups more than likely.i am inclined to agree with a previous poster in that i'm not sure driving for dollars will necessarily yield you what you are looking for.Network with as many other MF investors as possible in your area and find an agent that knows the market and can at the very least set you up on an MLS search for your criteria.Coupled with BP's deal analysis calculator you can then begin underwriting properties you receive from the MLS with your agent or on your own to better understand your market and tailor your expectations moving forward.I'm an investor focused agent that focuses on MF and while we are not in the same market if you have any questions about moving forward with MF LTRs i'd love to see how i could help.

.-- Or, what we do is offer the free rent AFTER & ONLY if they pay their first 3 months of rent on time to earn it.4) Lower the rent 5% every 2-4 weeks until activity picks up.5) Understand this is the worst time of year to find tenants.-- Starts picking back up end of February when this tenant pool starts getting their income tax refunds and aren't broke anymore.6) Section 8: where is the property being advertised?

As a property manager, it's crucial to understand the nuances of these fraudulent practices, recognize the signs, and implement strategies to mitigate risks effectively.Understanding Rental Application FraudRental application fraud occurs when a prospective tenant provides false information on their rental application in an attempt to secure a lease.

After researching the basics, I am looking forward to understanding the realistic steps in concluding a first deal.

Milwaukee is still one of the hottest markets in the US, we see on average offers at 102% of list price, so understanding fair market value is key.And then of course you have the fact that most deals are negotiated by agents.

You will want to consult with a lawyer.In regards to your last two questions here's some background on what makes a contract valid and enforceable:Offer: A promise to do or not do something within a certain time period Acceptance: A clear and direct statement that all terms and responsibilities are accepted Consideration: A legal and adequate inducement given in exchange for the promise Capacity: The parties to the contract must have the legal capacity and competency to contract Awareness: A party must be aware of the contract Legality: The contract must be legal in the jurisdiction it will be operating in***Not legal advice*** Steps I would take: -Review contract in detail to understand each counterparties responsibilities (if you are not aware)- Email a copy of the lease to each of the tenants listed on the lease and reiterate lease expectations for termination notice, rent payment etc. - If the lease was signed via Docusign (other esign may have same ability) - you can go to the envelope, go to history and view the IP addresses for each action taken.