For example of above, there was a person I know, they bought a house for a rental, the square footage was enough to make a 3rd bed out of a dining room, that would increase the month rent by $400.00 a month if they did that..

Yikes I am almost afraid to jump in on this one, however, I know Joe personally and he is not a scammer.

As a beginner, I would personally get my feet wet with something a little less risky without a balloon payment like that.

Real-life reps, to me, means seeing properties in person, whatever your asset class. 

I know some will differ here but I will offer my personal opinion like many others have.

Second- these developments where the same person develops, builds, and then requires you to use them for management- they always suck.

. $50 per bedroom, so a 4-bedroom house will cost you about $150~200consumables - bathroom supplies, kitchen supplies, beverage supplies: $20~30 per week, depending on how much you providewear and tear - towels, linen, kitchen utensils, some furniture: $1000~2000 per yearRepairs/replacement for things that guests break or steal:  $1000~2000 per yearAlso, if your personal use is less than 14 days a year, the entire property's expense is deductible against STR income, but if you use more than 14 days, then you will have to calculate the proportion of how many days it's rented out vs how many days you or your family uses. 

I personally am interested in creating a long-term rental portfolio but I'd be interested in hearing any strategy, ie. house flipping, short term rentals etc.

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

Any insights, personal experiences, or advice would be greatly appreciated!