They are exceedingly rare, thus very expensive, but I believe they represent an excellent long term steady income and store of value.  

BiggerPockets is an excellent platform for networking and establishing connections.

3) Is there an official IRS form where these hours are documented, or would an excel file suffice ?

I use Rent Redi and it is good.I also use Excel, Zelle and Zillow which are all free or I already have them.

Buy a quality couch from a US manufacturer and their fabrics are usually excellent.

To maximize the number of transactions you’re involved in you will need to:Be Top of Mind when they think about moving - which requires consistent reminders.Be seen as an Expert – which requires a consistent message and Evidence of Success storiesGain their Trust – which requires communicating integritySo, start out by listing everyone you know in an Excel spreadsheet.

To maximize the number of transactions you’re involved in you will need to:Be Top of Mind when they think about moving - which requires consistent reminders.Be seen as an Expert – which requires a consistent message and Evidence of Success storiesGain their Trust – which requires communicating integritySo, start out by listing everyone you know in an Excel spreadsheet.

They get hail storms there.No cap ex or anticipated cap ex.Rent is slightly lower than market because I have long-term, excellent tenants.The Dallas area is still growing, so selling is probably something I'd regret.Been renting the house since 2011, when I bought it. 

Communication via email has been excellent as well! 

Both are excellent and work great.