By allying yourself with the right people and learning as much as you can, you can receive just as good a RE education as the most reputable "guru" out there is offering.But the opposite criticism is true as well.

For the most part, while I know how to replace a roof on my own, someone who does roofing for 50 hours a week, is going to complete the job in a much more efficient manner than I ever could, and this applies to everything if you work with reputable contractors.

I also have a 25+ year stellar reputation in construction in our area.Mostly I wanted to throw this out there to just let others know that it IS possible, BUT also VERY dependent on those long term relationships and having great finances even if not available for the project at hand.Dan DIetz

There are usually a few contractors there at the meeting and if not, the group can definitely refer you to several reputable contractors they have used.

Intend on using a reputable accountant to do my taxes this year as with an LLC it’s not advisable to do your own taxes.

When things go wrong, other good and hardworking contractors, tend to get a bad reputation.

Checking local reputation of a HML is necessary.

Enforceable contracts, reputation, etc.

If you aren't going to do the work yourself, get a couple of reputable contractors opinions on pricing in the area.

I'm may hire a property manager anyway to manage the properties, and I'm thinking it may be doable if I find a reputable company.Any thoughts?