I am not in favor of growing via cash-out refi.

Focus and consistency are going to be your best friends.Also, I wouldn't tackle buy-and-holds right now unless you currently have a high cash flow revenue stream in place.

We were especially thrilled to start our investing journey with a duplex, and it was even better that the tenants desired to stay and had been consistent with rent for many many years.

A property manager should always account for both income and expenses—you’re the owner, and you have a right to see exactly where your money is going.It almost sounds like he thinks he’s doing you a favor instead of working on your behalf.

We are excited to be a part of your investing journey in the beginning and hopefully for many years as you continue to grow. 

My name is Erick, and I’m thrilled to be starting my journey into real estate investing.

The property was occupied (still is) with 1 tenant that I am now having the exhausting pleasure of evicting. 2yrs later, said tenant continues to try every angle to delay the court granted Marshall’s execution.The “2nd” floor was poorly renovated (bad contractors), new tenant moved in and a year later, another eviction process has started as they lost their job and refuse to move or pay.Stuck with a very large mortgage bill (that I am paying), utilities and making small repairs to keep the property up also noting the casual 311 complaints from both tenants. 

Exciting times ahead in your real estate journey.

I would love to know more about your journey so far. 

Now that's flipped, which makes profitability on a simple rental much harder.