The truth is, a large percentage of landlords lose more money making rookie mistakes than they would pay for professional property management.

I was out of college (just earned my degree in Culinary Arts) and was constantly running out of money.

The only way I can access is money is through my primary residence and doing a HELOC.

Conventional, after two hard money people fell through How did you add value to the deal?

If it is a private money/ commercial style  lender, it is a relatively simple process.

At this point I am reading books, saving money, and looking to make relationships in the investment community.

But by coming together with others, one can get in the game and put their money to work in these bigger, potentially greater return deals without having to do it solo.

If the zoning won't allow it, then it would be a waste of money to continue with the renovation.

No one wants to put in the effort, work, time and money, into a healthy habit or - for real estate - into a solid asset.

Quote from @Marc Zak: In the market where I live (San Diego), appreciation has been strong and many predict it will continue to appreciate in the long term.However, with current interest rates (6% at best) and property tax (2%), the annual cost burden is 8%.Am I correct in saying that appreciation has to be above 8% annually (plus whatever my maintenance and vacancy costs are) for me to make any money in this scenario if the property is cash flow neutral?