Quote from @Jonathan Grzeszczyk: Soon I am taking a job with a wholesaling company on the acquisition side of the deal. 

Eventually, I’d like to start using the cash flow to pay myself and work toward replacing my day job income.

So think twice before taking any outsized risks, as you already achieved a nice equity base, and you don’t want to end up screwing the pooch by taking unneeded risks ;)Good luck and keep us posted on your decisions…

Quote from @Paul Gupta: Hi, in California, For jobs requiring a license, there was CSLB (contractor state licensing board) which would give either a General Contractor license, or specialty licenses by trade (~60 specialties such as concrete, welding tile, ) https://www.cslb.ca.gov/about_us/library/licensing_classific...My Q: does Maryland and DC area have similar requirements? 

Quote from @Brandon Croucier: No need to be paying an upfront fee to a lender.As a lender it is our job to perform or we do not get paid. 

This agreement is just like a listing agreement when you go list a home, you are hiring the right person for the job, so this is the same type of contract, but this person is hired to find you the right home. 

Many first time investors don't realize that by getting into the management they are getting another job.  

The government has tried it with section 8 and rent control in some cities , we all know the end result .You would be better off starting a jobs program teaching the trades , educating them on finances and work ethic and then rebuilding abandoned properties for them to buy 

I do relatively well in my day job by today's standards but my hourly rate for self managing is closer to that of a surgeon. 

Also, what niche jobs in real estate (Agents, appraisers, house inspectors, lendors, ect.) are going to be replaced eventually?