When you do a lot of deals you build a local reputation and people tend to tap you on the shoulder and ask you for help.

I had two housemates that both moved out, but my property manager is not allowing additional tenants - which means that I inherit the entire rent amount on my shoulders.

I don't hate my job at all, I'm very lucky that my job is creative and not boring or anything, but I still have to answer to someone everyday, and I would like to be free of someone over my shoulder and being around the rat race mentality, and I figure since I'm young it'd be good to get a head start in making changes to take control of where my life is headed. 

Purchasing property in the Keys can be a great way to help shoulder some of the crazy rental prices down here.  

Compare this to 3-4 weeks for a mortgage with that will require 20% down and force you to shoulder the entirety of the rehab.  

I was standing in the parking of of one of my apartment buildings chatting with my contractor and cleaning guy when the cleaning guy goes 'WTF' as he looks over my shoulder.

You think you have stress now, buckle-up  because if you want any shot of actually getting there your gonna have to grow Rhino skin and carry Atlas's load on your shoulders my friend.

Along with that, I'm able to look over their shoulder to learn the process hands-on in a way.

Under 7-night stays are a large portion of my shoulder season rentals.  

And yes, every time I submit a payment towards dramatically reducing the bad debt -- it puts a smile on my face and a little more weight is lifted off my shoulders.