I decided to:a) make it unusable as an actual fireplace (it can't burn anything) b) keep it looking like a fireplace with an electric insert that puts out heat and 'realistic looking' flames.c) make the hearth/mantel really nice and put battery candles (Costco) all around.It looks nice, and still provides a central focus for people to gather around.Is it as nice as a 'real' fireplace?

This is the part where you have to burn both ends of the candle so you can go FI in 5-10 years.

My lease specifically include incense and candles.

I do like STRs, but nothing can hold a candle to syndications in terms of passiveness.

While properties are often less-expensive in other area the rents are also significantly lower and the cost to clean, paint and purchase materials and items at Home Depot and other store is the same in every area and every state with the exception of Alaska where everything is 20% to 30% higher.There are two old saying I heard many times, "don't spread yourself too thin" and "don't try to burn the candle at both ends". 

Your earnings are almost exponential and the investment is bulletproof during market corrections since during market corrections multi-unit properties actually increase in value while single family homes depreciate.Don't burn the candle at both ends and someone like yourself reminds me of the same scenario I see over and over.

One of the tenants got candles (violation of lease) to close to the drapes... long story short; I have a vacant duplex that has been gutted by fire.The good: 1.

Look at the color groupings of the candles. 

Adding in some candles that are non-scented can give a home some wonderful ambiance.

We heated it with candles and a coleman lantern until I got a ditch dug for the power company to lay the power cable in.