It allows you to diversify into a portfolio of homes as opposed to putting all of your proverbial eggs in one basket.Be cautious tho as over the years I have witnessed countless investors buying properties in crappy areas, for more than they are worth and being passed on to crappy property management that nickel and dimes them to death (I guess all of those 15% "awesome" paper cap rates and promises of financial freedom aren't that awesome after all...)This is not just true for real estate deals but life in general (Your "piece of paper" degree does't necessarily dictate success in your chosen profession or your business)Real life experience is different to what any "piece of paper" says.In all reality guys it takes time to build financial freedom, and the more you can diversify your risk across multiple properties in your portfolio the less risk you bear in the long run.I may not be the smartest Aussie you have ever met, however I do understand a few basic rules that I follow on every acquisition I make.Strength in numbers, cash only, patience, and discipline.Let's talk about Strength first.Price point plays a big part of "strength in numbers" as it is safer to acquire 5 homes for a total of $350,000 as opposed to one for $350,000.What happens if "that one" property goes untenanted for 5 months?

I think in the process of being the Older Wiser More Experienced Investors out there, the literal original question has gotten lost in the smog.To wit: What IS real estate?

My 4 year old witnessed everything and I just wanted to leave but he refused to let me get in my vehicle until I do.

They were lucky to still have the wit to remember to take their Prozac every day.And so I've come to believe that most university and postgraduate programs of study, in all their many varieties, very much tend to put people's heads in boxes and turn them into golden mediocrities to support the current order of things.Do I regret my own studies?

Your motivation and drive are inspiring to witness - thanks for sharing your plan for your REI career.Lots of good advice already shared in the comments here, so I'll just say it all comes down to the life you want to have.

Rather, they have witnesses who must testify under oath based on their recollection of events.

Reason they gave is they are entering the witness protection program in a divorce case and moved to an undisclosed location.  

In Mesa AZ  - you can kind of see ho wit works athttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/600-phoenix-r...

Unless you personally witnessed the damage being done, I'd stay out of the middle of it. 

Originally posted by @Simon W.:It