I know i need to start looking more into tax strategies.I understand that save/buy is a (relatively) slow  way to expand.. but i'm also not looking for a "Boom"I'd be hard-pressed to refi... i've decent  rates and for now i'm looking at cashflow until i'm not dependant on my W2 job ( i think  that at 7 units i could "get by"..barely) then i can  move towards being more concerned on long term wealth/retirement/equityThe rentals have their own business account that i do not dip into** I do not pay myself rent, BUT the business account does pay my personal gas/electric.from my W2 earnings i spend about $1300/mo on everything ( from car insurance to eating out), rest is savedany new downpayments are a mix of business account and savingsWith the 5 total units ( 4 rented; 1 personal use)  I "Cashflow" about  $1K/mobut that number does not account for any CapEx.What might you change/suggest about my strategy?

I would not really be receiving any profit (barely break even with mortgage and HOA dues), but I would be happy to have someone else foot that bill for me as I lower my principal.

However, the tax returns have proven that there is barely enough money to pay expenses. 

Everything I see here in California is sickeningly expensive and I'm afraid 99% or with my luck 100% of them would barely cover the mortage.

So bare with my ignorance.  

Im not a writer / blogger, so please bare with me and my not so perfect 'righting' lolMy question to you is what do you think is the best way to scale your portfolio.We currently own 6 rental units.

At this rate, I am barely putting any money in my pocket, but my housing payment is completely eliminated and I am able to set aside $585/mo for vacancies, maintenance, and capital expenditures. 

I’m giving you the bare bones of how I do it.

When setting goals I've found that a goal that you can just barely make by stretching just a little bit is the best.

Sedona is attractive at first glance but it has developed a reputation as a crystal shop, pink jeep, airy-fairy tourist town.