You can surely buy cheaper properties and obtain the same debt pay-down, but now you've got 5x the head-ache, so right asset class is more about efficiency when it comes to debt pay-down.Tax shielding is similar concept in that more expensive properties directionally give you more building basis to depreciate, which means less net income to tax.

The properties in OK, which are roughly 30-40% smaller than my personal residence are only about $400-$600 cheaper than my FL insurance.

If you are close to retirement and are accredited, it's safe to assume that you'll likely have some decent, taxable income rolling in during retirement.

Did they find a better place, a cheaper place, a better and cheaper place?

You might be referring to income / expenses that are reflected by cash.Cash you receive from rentsExpenses that you pay out such as insurance, interest, taxes, etc.You may not have included depreciation expense which would bring your taxable income down further.It may be possible that the negative taxable income would bring your taxable income down.

I am with Suncoast currently.Remember: cheaper doesn't mean you'll make more money.Start by going to www.narpm.org to search their directory of managers.

But it’s clear you’re a smart investor who knows the long-term benefits real estate can bring.I keep reminding myself why I stick with real estate: you can make money every month in four different ways:Cash Flow – Passive income to live on.Appreciation – Long-term property value growth.Depreciation – Tax benefits that reduce your taxable income.Tenants Paying Down the Mortgage – Even if you’re paid off now, this is one of the biggest wealth-building tools for leveraged properties.It sounds like your main struggle is the stress of active management—and trust me, you’re not alone.

The exemption allowed results in a “taxable value” of either 75% of the “ATI fair market value” or the final Current Fair Market Value for the tax year of sale, whichever is higher.

(Gas are more expensive to buy, but cheaper to operate.).

Move to places where housing is cheaper.