If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

If syndicator is building reserves for the first year of ownership, for instance, and not paying distributions, AND recognizes rental profit, you will have a larger tax bill that year, since you "made money" in the IRS's eyes, even though you did not receive any cashflow from your syndicator.On a more general note, a preferred return does not mean you will get that amount of cash flow each year.  

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.

We expect to be in a position to redeem your interests in short order, and we will keep you posted, as always, on any developments in this regard.We understand the importance of distributions to our investors and recognize the impact this decision may have on your financial planning.

Which this new business out of Tennessee I am looking at either LLC or C Corp (S Corp is not recognized at a state level here).

This is recognized by financial planners, bankers and other experts from coast-to-coast as a valid strategy where it meets the consumer's need.I don't take ANYONE at their word because of their age, sheep skins or experience. 

I have learned to be honest with myself and recognize that it’s NOT a huge money maker now, but will be if I hold for 20+ years. 

But not necessarily purchased below market value”market value”.Look, some of the “best” (most profitable) property I bought were purchased at market price - value, because the market didn’t recognize the value I was able to see, or didn’t have the information I had.  

In California I've bought mostly older homes but I recognize theere's some risk to that.

I recognize that one can not take a passive loss if their income is over 150k; however, from what I have read, it states that if you dispose of/sell your rental that you can deduct the passive losses the year you sell.