Appreciation is not a bonus or luck, it is literally the number one wealth-generating force in real estate.

There is also the added bonus of networking with future colleagues in the class, finding accountability partners, etc.I got licensed online with real estate express.

And SF appreciates much better in my area which is a bonus too.

I can add about $1000 a month to my savings and whatever bonuses I receive to it as well. 

So you takes your chances and pays your money at some point.I was viewing the built in equity as the "bonus" of financing it myself through the bank rather than the builder doing it.

In your case looking to larger assets where you can effeciently cost segregate to gather bonus depreciation would be a smart move.Appreciation - Where in the country is the asset class you like growing or going to be growingAmortization of the loan - What sector or even region if you look locally for funding, is going to offer the most favorable lending so that less goes to interest expense and more to pay down of principle.Have fun with a spread sheet comparing these 4 returns from your investment with the type and location of assets you find attractive. 

Book losses through bonus depreciation.4.

I've been seeing constant ads for Baselane, which I'm guessing is newer by the bonus incentives being offered and the amount of advertising.

If you're an LP that meets the requirements for REPS, but you're not materially participating, losses generated from bonus depreciation is unlikely to help you offset non-passive income. 

Through depreciation, particularly accelerated depreciation and bonus depreciation, you can typically offset all rental income such that there is no taxable income from your rental .