Myself, I specialize in Section 8 and low income properties.

Consider different strategies like mid and short term rentals as I believe the Portland area would allow for success in both (although I have heard Portland proper is tough on STRs).Best of luck!

Yes, this is "tough love", but you won't survive in this business if you let it affect you:)

NYC DOB considers a shelter a 'community facility with sleeping quarters' and may require a special permit for this use.Thanks Abel, You provided me with the right search terms to dig deeper. 

If you are self-employed with no full-time employees you may wish to consider opening a Solo 401k instead of a self-directed IRA as it has several advantages over an IRA LLC such as much higher contribution limits, direct checkbook control (i.e. no need to have the account at a speciality trust company), ability to take a 401k loan, exclusion from unrelated debt finance income tax with respect to investment in real estate acquired with non-recourse financing, etc.Can I contribute to both a Solo 401k and SDIRA?

@Jaron Jackson, unfortunately, this one is going to be tough.

We specialize in single family homes, condos, townhouses, and select small multi family homes.

I think what you’re referring to is a checkbook IRA so you can bypass the custodian when performing transactions/investing and all assets/accounts will be held in the name of a special purpose LLC or Trust which is the instrument that gives you checkbook control.  

A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.You may want to consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for a accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

It's tough, the rents have gone up so quickly over the last few years that rentometer has had a tough time keeping up.