In south Florida, there are a ton of free RE networking events where contractors, agents, mortgage brokers, etc all meet for drinks etc and I have found this to be a great way to find good people in the business.

I would tend to agree with the other CPAs typically.The 500-hour test is one of seven material participation tests used by the IRS to determine if a taxpayer is actively involved in a trade, business, or rental activity. 

I also co-own a rental property in AR with my business partner.

Your taxes are none of the ex wife's business and this would seem to address your concerns.I would also put her on notice that future requests for financial discovery will be two-way and if a discrepancy is seen in the other direction you will seek support from her.

Treat this property as a business and factor in all the associated expenses, including mortgage payments (if you pull a loan), maintenance, and potential vacancy periods.To simplify management and make this less of a hands-on job, I’d strongly recommend working with a property management company.

Sale price: $222,017 JWB Real Estate Capital helps busy professionals from across the world invest in real estate in Jacksonville, FL.

Having used both, I would go with propstream if you're looking for a solid data platform, and are investing significant money into other systems as part of your business and its growth model.

And don't forget, states don't have 4-profit business to create wealth, no money-tree out in a yard to shake, states $ is from THE PEOPLE, so that $50 Billion is all Californians paying for it.  

Yes, this is "tough love", but you won't survive in this business if you let it affect you:)

Is your goal to use being an agent for your own personal investments or actively try and grow your agent business to eventually leave your W2?