Wow, that’s a tough spot, and it really sounds like you tried your best to meet them halfway.

With a handful, yeah it's not viable in my opinion unless your inside a greater group that specializes in sec8.

When it was all said and done, our bad tenant cost us over $30k.The financial hit was certainly tough, but there was also the feeling that we had no control over the situation.

Are you offering any special programs, incentives, or advice to help them close out the year successfully? 

Find someone local or who specializes in working with investors.

They specialize in uncovering all encumbrances and can save you from unexpected surprises.

Quote from @Kevin Robert Highgate: The ability to invest in property and replace your W2 income quickly is tough.

I'm wondering how anyone does it in this area, or maybe I just have not been looking for long enough.I really would like to purchase in my area as it would be my first rental property, and I am most familiar with the northern VA area If this is not to be, I also am wondering what markets nearby would be better.I’m also in Fairfax County, and you’re absolutely right: Fairfax County and much of Northern VA are tough markets for cash flow, especially starting out without a substantial down payment.

I specialize in portraits... so, headshots, family portraits, lifestyle and branding content, boudoir, and anything else where humans are photographed. 

I do not think enough coverage is going to the people who are fighting this fight -that job is tough and a big uphill battle to fight these fires.