Simplify the process.... buy something smart, rent it out, maybe it cash flows, maybe you break even, maybe you lose a small amount of money but gain equity/appreciation.

How should I consider simplifying in general?

The Checklist Manifesto convinced me how powerful it is to simplify complex tasks into simple, repeatable steps

Note I simplified the example there would be pay down, tax write offs, a reset amortization schedule and other factors.

They have a lot of features and claim they eliminate a lot of different platforms to simplify lead generation, management, and follow-up. 

Following software are for you to consider to simplify your day-to-day operations and finances: PM software: Azibo, Avail, Innago, Apartments.com, Hemlane, Turbotenant, Rentredi, Tenant Cloud, eRentpayment, Zillow rental managerRental accounting tool: Azibo, Stessa, REIHub, Quickbooks (not specifically for rentals and pricier though)Rental banking: Azibo, Stessamove-in/move-out inspection: rentcheckHope it helps! 

Now before the accountants jump down my throat, I do understand the above is somewhat simplified and can be more sophisticated (i.e consider depreciation, taxes etc etc) but for some reason I doubt that a lot of investors even understand this much!

You can use a simplified version by neglecting the time value of money.

I have only one PM for all my properties and it really simplifies management, accounting etc.

@Henry Clark trying to organize and simplify things.