@Jack Cottrellyou said you "need properties that I can get at a good deal that cash flow and appreciate while minimizing the trouble commonly associated with real estate"well... yeah, everyone wants those properties. 

I have had no issues finding renters for our units and have have minimal turnover.

However, if you minimize your vacancy exposure, you may find (just like I have witnessed for years) that it is a much easier and more beneficial strategy.

Minimal risk.

Seems like there for a while I was getting a pitch a week or so. 

But thats part of the being OOS and as I gain more experience and I better team I can minimize that.

Starting small, like with a duplex, is a good way to get your feet wet and minimize risks.Good luck!

What is more common is someone saying they have everything, calling it "easy" and it's all just BS sales pitch.

I've asked my clients a similar question and have developed tools for them to minimize this, but I find there are a few different types of clients.Manager managed - these folks have no issues as they simply upload their year end statement from their property manager, their 1098 mortgage statement and any other one-off expenses they may have paid for outside of the management company. 

@Curtis Cutler Avoid cashing out your 401(k)/457 to minimize taxes and penalties, potentially up to 40%.