Not easy but well worth it

@Troy Smith might be worth having a local agent take a look at your comps with a CMA and then weigh out whether your 'spring market' will bring better sales comps, or if the sales from the past 6 months will get you the value that you are looking for.Here's a quick go-by for seasoning requirements for much of the investment property lending world.

Today, that duplex is worth $475,000–$500,000.

I've been bringing in $400k worth of business but its not enough here in California that I keep to really make a difference.

It just didn't seem like it would be worth my time or money. 

Also, for what it's worth, just because someone is in the military doesn't mean he isn't a bum.

It could be worth reaching out to some local brokers to ask them, as they may be able to better guide you. 

Online platforms like Zillow, PropStream, and Auction.com are worth exploring, and don’t forget to check out local real estate groups for deals and partnerships.Since you’re in Racine, the Rental Property Association of Wisconsin and Milwaukee REIA are great resources for networking, finding contractors, and learning about funding opportunities.

The cash-flow is probably not worth the hassle if tenants are hard on the property. 

It takes a lot of practice and sucks in the beginning, but if you stick with it long enough and keep improving it will be worth it