I don't disagree that it might be a long-shot, but trying to make sure I could even present the idea. 

Umm, disagree with @Dmitriy Fomichenko on the umbrella policy not being necessary for the 1st property.

I’ve read most of this bookBut if already been investing out of state some when I read it.It’s got a lot of good pointers but also stuff I disagree with.

I disagree with the sentiment that it is crucial to have a lot more money. 

@Ray HarrellI cant disagree with that.

Gotta disagree with your assessment of this deal as a "single"  70% CoC return year 1 is definitely a home run!

The IRS takes you at your word for the basis, but if you are selected for examination you need to be able to back that number up with original calculations."

At the risk of being a tax practitioner on this thread correcting someone...you're actually supposed to report number of days the property was rented at fair market value on Schedule E.Software will examine the fair market rented (FMR) days and the relationship of the FMR days to the personal use days for treatment under Sec 280A (which involves personal use of rentals and properties rented less than 15 days).The tax treatment for a property available to rent 365 days during the tax year but rented 0 days is much different than a property rented at fair market rates for 365 days.

But there are obviously many situations where two reasonable architects can disagree. 

I disagree.