On the other hand, self-education through books, podcasts, and free resources is cost-effective but requires discipline and a clear plan.

There is no real reason to use illegals, there's just no real benefit to it and a lot of downside.

A few small touches, like high-quality linens and a welcome guide, can make a big difference. 

Not likely), vacancy (@ 8% for me), and a possible PM (10% normally).I recommend you reach out to a local seasoned investor and have them run your #s with you, as the #s depend on how you manage it (how hands on you are) and also local pricing.

Here's the breakdown:Financing: We used a seller carry deal with 25% down ($100k), a 30-year term (balloon in 10 years), and a 4.68% interest rate.

Might have indeed had $1.3 million and still working for the man, and a pot of $$ that I still couldn’t access without the gubmit telling me when, how, and how much. 

AND just because you have experience and a “good deal” doesn’t mean you will be successful trying to syndicate the deal.The first criteria is does the sponsor have the general knowledge and experience in real estate, and the specific knowledge and experience in the property type/location to give the project the best shot at success?  

Seriously, all I can tell you is this:Showing you screenshots, and a ton of leads from my website is a direct indication of the effectiveness of what I am telling you. 

For example I have an account for each property and a sub-account just for the security deposits for those properties.

Hello,I am a Software Engineer and a Real Estate Investor working on a tech product for the real estate mortgage brokers.