But it left a terrible taste in my mouth and made me not even want to stay in his home we reserved.

I'd have to say that insurance companies probably have the best training in salesmanship techniques on the planet, they sell an intangible product that can't be touched, smelled or tasted, just a promise to perform.

Different tastes too, pick you poison or your witch doctor.

The yield may not be as high as 10% but you will get a taste of the process.  

We've thought about about direct mailing residents at other parts advertising an incentive to move, it just seems a bit unethical or in bad taste if nothing else.

Live in one and rent the others.You get a taste of being an investor.Do this a few times and then by the time you are 30-40 you can retire.

We have similar taste @Neal CollinsHere's my latest home 

It’s an acquired taste that you begin to enjoy more and more, especially once you begin to see the money you can make from it.Cold calling is an outstanding resource, especially for those with a limited advertising budget.

I guess I am getting a taste of my own medicine...

Welcome to the GREEN SideI bet after you taste bucket load of money you will change your mind about passive income...Not that passive isnt something that you shouldnt look at for long term wealth..Happy huntingMichaelBTW buy that first house Subject 2 the existing loan...