At a certain point it becomes a lot of work but you can outsource a lot of the work by hiring VAs which is way cheaper than a management co (definitely not as hands off though) 

The area has appreciated very well over the past couple of years and we bought cheaper than we probably should have been able to, again through timing and where the builder was at on things- some of their other projects that were like ours in the same neighborhood were purchased a month later for $25,000 more than what we paid.

@Nate Marshall can you provide references to other sorts of cheaper education on this subject? 

Use LVP flooring, it's cheaper than installing new hard wood floors and they're more durable for longevity purposes.

That money is there for a different (long term) purpose... and if you are pulling it out to not return it you are going to pay a penalty, which isn't financially smart.Odds are you have a great rate on your current house if you bought it during cheaper times... so giving up a great interest rate doesn't make sense either on selling your house and renting.  

It was cheaper to clear the line each year, but eventually I excavated because i got tired of getting emergency calls about toilet backup.

Even paying for an audiobook will be cheaper then their scam courses. 

Averaging $1k/mo per bedroom which is now on the cheaper side of things.

Because obviously there was no skill or courage involved, and houses will definately be cheaper in 20 years. 

It will protect you for cheaper without the additional complexity.