I will say that even though you get the boost from VRBO and AirBNB, the first year of operation is usually lean as you build up the rep.Offering a discount on the stay is a way to be more attractive but don't go crazy.

Dan makes a great point - you want to be clear of any areas that are working on limiting the ability to rent OR cap your rental potential.

But, at one of the properties, the tenants split their portions of the rent.

The agent was getting pushed pretty hard by his brokerage to get this signed before putting in an offer, so I caved, but limited the date. 

How about using SDIRAs not to hold assets but to operate businesses?

Perhaps you have coverage for the replacement value BUT the insurance company when calculating the replacement property uses modern building materials like drywall but your original house had plaster which is much more expensive.

Lots of areas that pencil very well on paper but the quality of renter you will get is going to eat into any profit you may think you are getting.

I’m drawn to real estate not just for financial freedom but to build a legacy for my family while contributing positively to communities.

Not sure if everyone here knows, but I represent taxpayers before the IRS.

I make roughly 150k annually but have 200k total in student debt from graduate school.