Multiple professional references, when addressing this issue, carefully state: "the IRS position is..." - which to me indicates the same doubts that I have about the legality of the IRS position.Until the IRS is challenged in court over this position and loses, I choose to comply with their position.

Nice try, but this time does not count.In order to meet 750 hours, your wife will need one of the below:- do something else real estate related, like wholesaling or realtor- actively work on expanding your rental portfolio - have an extensive DIY rehab, like a month-long full-time rehab (and then she might need another kind of rehab)- a calamity such as multiple properties damaged in a storm where she will have to deal with insurers and contractors- something else out of the ordinaryAgain - if all you have is 9 single-family properties with stable tenants and typical occasional maintenance - you don't have enough work to collect 750 hours.

Could you end up finding one or even multiple deals at auction?  

Have multiple exit strategies, do not be over leveraged, and make sure you are factoring market changes.

I have had multiple STRs in the nashville area.

This could work well if you’re looking for steady monthly returns and don’t mind managing tenants (or hiring a property manager).Selling could also make sense if you’d rather use the $500,000 to diversify into other investments, like buying multiple properties or even a short-term rental on the lake as you mentioned.

You have enough to buy multiple rent properties. 

Simplified ManagementFor those managing multiple properties, AB 2622 streamlines operations by expanding your hiring pool and removing the red tape often associated with minor repairs.Why It Matters for TenantsTenants also benefit from AB 2622:Faster Maintenance: Minor issues like plumbing or lighting can now be resolved promptly.Fairer Move-Out Costs: Affordable repairs mean tenants aren’t hit with inflated charges for damage beyond normal wear and tear.Things to Keep in MindWhile AB 2622 makes maintenance easier, landlords should still vet unlicensed workers carefully, ensure proper insurance coverage, and remember that jobs requiring permits must involve licensed contractors.AB 2622: A Win-Win for California’s Rental MarketAB 2622 strikes a balance between flexibility and accountability, making it easier for landlords to maintain high-quality rentals while fostering better tenant relationships.

I'm looking to make this part of the retirement stream of income rather than an effort to accumulate multiple properties.

If you want immediate answers and help on a certain subject or area, multiple experienced members and leadership team members will be pretty quick about answering questions or connecting you with the right person through slack.