We have been playing it safe but really would like to start investing in Rental properties as another source of passive income and to start building for our children.  

I'm a realtor currently trying to gain contacts and two key ones I'm lacking right now are an inspector and a handyman.

A couple of months ago, a screen popped up forcing me to pay a fee in order to gain access to my account.

That's 50% of the gain by the way, not the sales price.

But as you get better and gain experience, you typically see a 30% to 40% cancellation rate.

Those extra doors offer a higher passive income and help to buy another home sooner once you file that next years tax returns. 

Very Very passive which is what we like. 

However, don't prioritize return of capital over return ON capital.Focusing on strong rental areas, high quality tenants, solid property upkeep and long term gains will keep you alive in this business longer. 

If you are lucky, it will cover all your costs related to the property (bank rate etc.).In Germany, real estate is a long term investment where usually the biggest gains (depending on region) come from appreciation.

Des Moines is a very good investment spot both passive and actively.