"A smart person learns from his mistakes, but a truly wise person learns from the mistakes of others" - Ken Schramm

A smart seller will have note, deed of trust/mortgage/etc. prepared by a local real estate attorney (yes, he/she may work with/at the title company) and be sure the security instrument is properly recorded in the land records. 

But, if they are using RE as a wealth savings device, that is ok with me.

Balancing properties with strong cash flow and others with higher appreciation is a smart way to build a well-rounded portfolio.

It's better to invest into insulation and possibly a new HVAC system than solar.How do you survive using just a flip-phone and not a smart phone?

Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas have some great opportunities, and it’s smart to connect with local investors and agents to get a feel for the market.

Sell it now if you are smart.

Switching property managers seems like it was a smart move, especially with how much you and your wife had to step in before.Chicago definitely isn’t an easy market, but it sounds like you’re set up for better success moving forward.

Many people in tech with tons of smarts and funding have also tried to do what you are trying to do. 

yes the work, is it smart move not sure.