Real estate syndication investing is still quite valuable as it can offer higher Returns than investing in public REITs but not as high returns as direct ownership and management of real estate by some experienced people, but with the benefit of being far more passive, than direct ownership/management. 

Detroit is a market where local have a strong competitive advantage over non-locals so you want to use that to your advantage.

After 6 months of non-payment, we were able to perform an eviction for this tenant.

Correct2. 100 hours could work if it's more than anyone else spent on the property including non-owners3.

In addition to public Service Jesse Brewer is a real estate broker with over 20 years’ experience in dealing with rental properties both as an owner / manager, but also as a broker selling them.

preREO is a marketplace for non-performing mortgages as well as REOs.

And if not then just go get a public adjuster.

That was an excellent non-answer to my question, Skyler. hihi :)No they are not all the same. some are only interested in dealing with conventional purchases other are as you say better at handling assignments or double closes, some are commercial specialty, etc....A investor friendly one would be, at least from my point of view, one that understands there may need to be some last minute wheeling, dealing, and adjustment made to close a deal, understand what needs to be done and do not freak out about creative deals.Maybe my understanding or thoughts are wrong but that's what I meant by investor friendlyregards :) 

I am on the board of the RPA (Rental Property Association of Wisconsin, a non-profit) and typically hear if things like this are an issue from our members or attorneys.

By "Tax Loss" I mean that it is likely that without depreciation your property is cash flow positive.If you Materially Participate in the management of your portfolio of rental properties, that loss will be treated as Non-passive, and will flow through to page one of your Form 1040 tax return.