Dealing with non-paying tenants in a state like Massachusetts, which has strong tenant protections, is no small task.

The second argument is that sellers often have no idea what they’re getting themselves into; that is liability, in a subject to transaction.

You must work at least 750 hours per year in a qualified RE business.So most people who have high-earning W-2 jobs outside of real estate won't qualify.But the unique thing about RE pro status is that even if you don’t qualify but your spouse does, you can both file jointly and claim the losses from your RE investments to offset your other active income together.It's an incredibly powerful benefit if you do meet the criteria.

If anyone could include what to look out for in a good deal and a bad deal

Keep in mind that many responsible agents tend to be conservative with their valuations, especially in today’s market, where properties aren’t moving as quickly as they once did.If we’re in a conservative market, pricing on the lower end may make sense, but it’s always good to weigh your options carefully.

We lived in a little apartment above the garage and rented out the main portion of the house. 

Buying in a high COLA with loss protection is a no-brainer in my book, but only if you expect to relo again.

Yes you are in a GREAT position to buy property but still need to keep improving your RICE.  

Cash for keys is definitely the best way to get people out in the day when I was very active at court houses steps cash for keys was by far the best way to get folks to move and bad tenants in a state with bad eviction laws to me would be the preferred method. you simply pay them when they are leaving the house not before.. that works fine and you give them more than 1k .. you make it worth their while..

You'd be surprised to learn that someone living in a rental or apartment, that has a family and is a successful small businessman, has the money and is willing to take that deal.