Build an SMB on top of your real estate (the reverse of #2)Short-term rentals and high owner-participation real estate businesses can have great returns.Obviously not for you if you just want passive RE.We are in the deep end here, where each case should be judged on its own facts and merits by your CPA.You should hire a professional to review your particular situation before you make an investment.

I understand that means paying the right professional for their services. 

if you buy a random property 3000 miles away and have to hire out everything and overpay for everything you won't.

It was a gut punch to see the tenants whose income we were counting on mass exodus the building right after we closed Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

In my devious mind, I thinking like you that I hire a parking attendant, install gates and charge an entrance fee if I bought it. 

For long-term strategies, a cash-out refinance is usually more advantageous, as it preserves ownership and offers fixed terms.To proceed, start with a professional appraisal to confirm the home’s value, compare refinance terms with traditional lenders, and carefully scrutinize shared-equity program terms to ensure they align with your financial goals.

No, meaning that if you had professional support it's likely they helped you set the table for later.This much structure with five properties can be overload and proper planning.

If this is what concerns you hire a buyer's agent because you are focused on the wrong things altogether.

If you are renting to professionals, you shouldn't have to worry about the landlord/tenant laws.