But you have a lot of followers and, like it or not, your choice of words matter.

This can be very expensive and is usually the worst choice because you can't justify the cost.2.

. #1 - Charleston, SC area - Worth: ~800k / Balance on mortgage: $230k / Excellent rental history 5y+ @ $3,300/month / Divorce buyout #2 - Syracuse NY area - Worth: ~600k / Balance on mortgage: $185k / No rental history (just inherited with brother) but in a desirable area so local realtors say it will rent easily in the $2,000-$2,500 range / Brother is partner#3 - Kansas City, MO - Worth: ~200k / Balance on mortgage: $100k / Excellent rental history 4y+ @ $1,200/month / Divorce buyout First choice is to pay off partners in a clean lump sum now (one wants to buy ASAP in another market, the other wants to build ASAP), but I'm open to brainstorming for options.I live in Portland OR and rent my primary address. 

I think it is important to point out that it is the tenant's choice to schedule with the tech at that time, and if the tenants allow them to access the home when they are not there that is their decision. 

Choose your top ~3 inspection companies, contact info, etc. and then when you're ready to start due diligence on a property, start with your top choice and then utilize your backups if needed for availability, coverage area, or whatever other reason.

It's about putting in the hours, making smart choices, and, yes, leveraging that network you've built.You're right about the "hamster wheel" scenario many find themselves on.

If you can find one, that would be my first choice, but I would not use the HELOC for a long-term investment.

One option eliminated makes the choice clearer.

Particular neighborhoods of choice: So what are the particular areas I should focus on that is in a decent neighborhood and gives me good returns? 

Is a project manager typically a choice to do instead of a general contractor?