Keep in mind the 6% tax rate for second home/investment properties is based on a taxable value and then a local millage rate. 

We have stabilized 2 properties so far and we are in the middle of the refinance on the second.

In Italy your second house or even a duplex section the income is taxed higher.  

My PA lease has specific clause on the second matter of your question. 

Second pro is that you get to lower your living expenses or live "rent free" by having your tenants pay for your mortgage payment.

I second MOJO 

First, it fast-tracks your learning as an investor - you are forced to develop better time management skills, build your network of reliable contractors/ handymen, etc..Second, when you are ready to transition to a property manager, you are well equipped to evaluate and hire the right company.3.

For reference, Dallas will show something like 26% chance of high winds (3 seconds with wind speeds above 50 MPH) in the next 30 years, for most available properties. 

NO seconds NO gap  no Gator

It might take me 15 seconds more per transaction to do it this way, but it’s what has worked for me.