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

However , properties taxes are due like roughly 12k for the two lots. 

Beyond that, sending upfront fees to a lender is not okay.

First, there are about 6 states that I refuse to invest in because of their tax laws and what I consider to be an unfriendly business environment.

I have a confession: my only duplex, which I gave owned now for 2 years and recently moved out of from a house hack, has proven to cost me more to maintain/pay taxes/repair/fix etc to the point where my cash flow is close to zero.

It may sound nice to pay a 6% management fee but the extra fees can add up to be more than the other company that charges 10% with no additional fees.

I paid tax on it and mowed it about every 5 years so maybe put 10k into over the years.. deductive reasoning suggested city does not build and full blown interchange to go to nowhere. 

@Apryl Skahill To get your risk-averse spouse on board with real estate investing, start by educating him with beginner-friendly resources that highlight the long-term stability, cash flow potential, and tax benefits of real estate, such as depreciation deductions and offsetting W-2 income.

It's a more affordable market and lower property taxes, so you may actually have a chance to cash flow.

You can also hold money for maintenance, capex, taxes, insurance, or other projected expenses.