Obviously this is a very broad question, but I’m just hoping for some examples of what I could realistically be expecting after investing in rentals for around 10 years. 

I’m being realistic about margins on my first deal, especially considering hard money.

So I wanted to compare what seems realistic in this environment to the passive returns possible through syndications. 

If you’re serious about getting into the game, I’d say build up those local contacts they can be your biggest asset.Glad you’re meeting with someone in real estate financing soon; it’ll be invaluable for guiding you through loan options and what’s realistic for a first purchase.

Also, if you choose the rental portfolio route, be realistic.

Memphis investors, is it realistic to expect deals where I can buy a SFH for $100,000, spend $40,000 on renovations, and then have it appraised for $170,000+?

Is your criteria realistic for the market?

It's in Foggy Bottom.So I think any chance for success in doing so...isn't realistic.

@David Georgeson understand that you are frustrated, upset and basically looking for a scapegoat.Unfortunately, no PMC that knows what they are doing would be responsible for this.How do you realistically expect a PMC to keep someone from breaking into your property and illegally occupying it?

Two months out from end of the yearly lease I reach out to the tenants Rep and tell them what I think the lease should be moved up to (go off FMR) and they approve or deny (always approve so far because I am realistic) an automatically increase it at the one year mark