I can most certainly perform all of the "clean up" that an abatement company would, without being regulated by the state, for a 10th of the price.

You should check your local regulations to make sure you can have that many unrelated people living in one dwelling.

The information you need should be available on line, All state/city landlord tenant regulations and codes should be readily available with a simple search.You need to know all the codes governing your business so you may as well start studying now.

That has both pro & con issues associated with it, including over regulation and high taxes (for everything).

@Eric TomlinI agree about not using an LLC unless you are also looking for liability protection.As far as IRA custodian to use, hands down IRA Services Trust Company as they have been in business since 1978 so have had decades to be tested by regulators whereas many others have maybe been in business much less.

If you are interested in rentals take the time now, while learning how to invest, to access and study your state landlord tenant regulations.

You will need to research your state regulations.

Another concern I have is short term rental regulation (possibly?)

If you become a Salesperson, you will have access to the MLS and be able to receive commissions from buying/selling your own properties but just know that there are a lot of disclosure regulations that need to followed once you become licensed.  

In addition to Troy; municipal zoning regulations and cap rate