We have done 600+ loans and like you mention know the numbers.Regarding people getting wiped out, every person has a story.

Longish story on use of an agent to sell a German condo.I sold a condo in Germany.  

You might find one of their stories resonates and gives you something to start to work towards. 

If you don't have such opportunities, it's a different story.

I have built my personal investment property wealth doing both, and have been very successful (my bio has my full story).  

It is NOT safe to do so.Funny story to illustrate: over a decade ago we took over a property with a senior citizen.

You probably have your side of the story, and what really happened is probably a blend of how we both saw it. 

My tenants we were without AC in the hottest week of may, and their oven wouldn't operate.Long story short, I did end up finding a great electrician, who I can gladly recommend who got the job done.

Would love to hear any advise and or stories about your first steps into the real estate investment world and things you wish you could of told yourself when beginning, thanks! 

Builder keeps on blaming on suppliers etc, every time there is a new story and hard to updates on delays.