Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

If your wife becomes a Real Estate Professional, you could use the depreciation to offset your taxable income if the properties are LTRs.Overall, with depreciation, your property may not generate any income at all so it doesn't hurt being in your name.

@Robin CastilloStarting an LLC before buying properties offers benefits like liability protection, tax flexibility, and professional image.

Next, maintain professional boundaries with clear communication and a strong lease agreement to set expectations upfront.Proactive maintenance is essential.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

You may consider paying a professional to get a tenant fast because I fear that if a tenant is not in by Nov, that you will have more difficulty getting a tenant before spring.  

I'd be careful - this kind of thing can put you at risk if you are wrong.A more effective way to do this that might contribute value to the world in some way would be to put together a reasonable, rational, and professional post, asking for feedback, and inviting the person you are accusing or highlighting of wrongdoing to respond. 

However, I had insurance coverage that I was advised was appropriate and I operated by what I understood landlord/tenant law was and used professionals.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

The county assessor has it as $502 but says that is a placeholder for all land values in the Pima County area.Our next option is to find a RE professional who can perform a limited scope land appraisal by pulling land comps from the area.