Therefore, if your rental income doesn't keep up with inflation, you must consistently reduce your monthly expenses or return to work to compensate for decreased purchasing power to maintain your living standard.No matter how many properties you eventually own, unless rents outpace inflation, you can not achieve true financial freedom.Back to Your SituationYou stated, “I don't believe that the property will continue to appreciate or see the rent growth it has seen over the past few years.”

Take out a lower(comparatively) rate CES for 6 months with plans of paying if off in full say after selling the asset.CES(Long-term)- Perhaps you're risk averse, and want a fixed rate long term, with consistent payments and don't have plans to pay off the note.

I am familiar with the meet ups happening in the area (and eager to join those) but am looking for something more personal, formal and consistent (bi-weekly?). 

If he is producing double digit cash on cash, IRR, or annual ROI on a consistent basis kudos.

Just make sure your contract is written well enough so you are protected.To me it is worth a shot if the numbers make sense.

Consistent search volumes for rental-related queries like "apartments for rent Syracuse NY" match well with the demographic profile, indicating ongoing interest in housing in this area.Supply and Demand DynamicsBuilding Permits: A notable surge in building permits in 2024, particularly for 2-unit and 5+ unit multi-family structures, notably in zip code 13224, signifies both growing demand and increasing supply, potentially influencing market prices.2024Total Units56Units in Single-Family Structures4Units in All Multi-Family Structures52Units in 2-unit Multi-Family Structures32Units in 3- and 4-unit Multi-Family Structures0Units in 5+ Unit Multi-Family Structures20Google Search InsightsSearch Trends: The terms "luxury apartments Syracuse NY" and "new apartments Syracuse NY" show increased interest, particularly with searches peaking for new construction assets.

In the screen shot you shared it looks like operating cash flow continues to grow at roughly the same pace after the refi which isn't likely to happen on real deals. 

The average person can totally achieve financial independence easily with education, self-discipline, and consistency. 

Depending on what your call list consists of you'll have a harder time finding info on the person.

If you consistently analyze properties, recognizing a good deal will be much easier when it shows up.