Once I gave in and bought a few only to not have assistance and no clear direction so frustration took over and I was still learning but needed direction, I finally found a group of investors to help me,  guide me,  and teach me the ins and outs of the industry.If I am not working deals learning the ropes or watching videos for extra information in real estate investing you can find me at my full time career as a Auto Injury Claims Specialist with big red.

As you read these books, watch the BiggerPockets podcasts.

Largely is because renters are not going to watch their electricity usage patterns, which makes it is hard to dial in the right system config to anticipate the load.

I watched a bunch of the OwnerRez videos and honestly OR and HA look eerily similar. 

If you're in the real estate investment business and must watch every penny, irrespective of your time, then by all means, do what you think will keep your expenses to a minimum.If, on the other hand, you are really in the business of creating profit by way of being a good marketer and a committed dealmaker, your creative energies ought to be reserved for doing what you do best (or intend to do best)...

I love Ben and his family so I'm glad you're watching his content.

I pick an area and watch the market so that I know when is a good time to buy.

What should I watch out for, and is there a significant advantage to choosing an EA over a CPA?

WE took 16 40 yard dumpters off of that house property and various vehicles etc etc. there was also a live boa constrictor that scared the heck out of one of the workers it got away ( of course) and the police wanted me to walk to all the neighbors and warn them to watch out for their cats:)WE demo's the house and I built a 1.5 mil dollar spec on it.

One thing to watch out for... it is a tax, but not an income tax (so it applies to Roth accounts as well).