I think since it's personal and you're the only owner, I would open a high-yield savings account and get 4-5% on the money.

They end up dumping more money into a sinking deal in hopes they can save their original investment.I think it's important to look at the quality of the syndicator.

While I don't have experience yet, I'm currently networking to meet new people in the area and saving up for my first deal hopefully sometime next year with the help of a family member who plans to partner up.

This saves me a lot of communication time as I only need to respond to inquiries with cut and paste responses with the open house day/time and I only need to show the rental twice a week. 7.

A nice home that may some day make a bad rental but a good primary home An exchange in to a state without state income tax to save that 10% in state income taxes.  

Knowing about construction, how to pick a good inspector and read inspection reports will save you a lot of headache/money -  it's difficult to invest in RE just by doing things online.

Forget trying to walk them through a simple repair over the phone, to avoid sending a ServiceTech and saving an owner money.

And you're right about avoiding weekly travel—sound systems can save you time and stress!

Many investors get their license for access to MLS and/or to save money on real estate commissions when they buy & sell.It's a good strategy, but only if you are doing VOLUME!

Here are a few suggestions on how you can maximize the wealth of information available: Check out the blogs and podcasts, or take advantage of the search feature (magnifying glass).