He read countless books on the subject (ranging from Rich dad, to books published by Bigger Pockets) and then began explaining all he had learned to me, suddenly I was hooked as well.

Putting the money in escrow would be optimal, but I know that isn't always the way it works out.I've heard countless stories of GC's getting advances and disappearing, using the money to pay debts, finish their last project, etc.

I've left countless messages and no returned calls.

Spend countless hours on this!

I have read numerous books (including one of Brandon's, which is what brought me to this site), listened to countless podcasts and have spent many hours on this website...but now it's time to take some more action.Thank you to everyone that contributes here.  

Pretty straightforward.Although I've done countless Comparative Market Analyses (CMAs) for my retail buyer clients, I've never done an investment analysis.

I have had him replace roofs on countless personal rentals, property management rentals, and flips, and have never had an issue.

I've been learning a ton since, I listen to about 3 podcasts per day, I've read about 6 books, read all the blogs, attend the webinars, I'm starting a meet up, I've ran countless analysis', and now I'm studying markets ( since my preferred market of Charlotte doesn't seem to offer the cash flow I'll need for my goals).Long story short, there are obviously varying opinions on where to start - SFH, 2-4 units, or go to commercial over 5 units.

No doubt there are countless people who are able to make money while abdicating this responsibility to others but you can also do this in a way that you control it and understand it fully.  

I've been through this scenario countless times as a manager and owner and I only wish I could've sold my unit full price with a lawsuit on file.