I was pizz-poor, totally clueless on how to find a deal so I just did what I could, knock doors and ask. 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!

., as Bad habits in one area typically carry over to other areas, and will land you a poor Tenant (or co-signer) choice.

Hey Koren,That's pretty much what I figured as well - can't imagine a realtor (or inspector) gets too far if they're referring poor work.Our realtor suggested Call2Inspect as well so that's great to hear!

not sure what the attraction to invest with these folks was.. but it does sound like a meltdown and some pretty poor operators.

Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.I just gave a list of my recommended reading to another poster, but will happily post it here again.Personally, my short list of books to explore:Set For Life by @Scott TrenchRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert KiyosakiABCs of Real Estate Investing by Ken McElroyABCs of Buying Rental Property by Ken McElroyLoopholes of Real Estate by Garrett Sutton, EsqTax-Free Wealth by Tom Wheelwright, CPAThe Power of Zero by David McKnightREIT Investing for Beginners by Lawrence SmithWhat Would the Rockefellers Do?

Quote from @Conrad Tillman: Quote from @Jay Hinrichs: LOL  its kind of like 50 ways to leave your lover.And its very much dependent on your jurisdiction. however I will list the stuff I have gone through the last decade or so through about 200 new builds in 4 markets.1. material price fluctuations. rarely down almost always up pretty much annually. 2. as we all know labor  scarce  and or unqualified and do poor work..

I have still walked in on people and animals who are either hiding (afraid I am there to bust someone) or just hear very poorly.

It's great to hear that Rich Dad Poor Dad inspired you, it’s a classic for getting into the real estate mindset.

Anything else is in poor taste in my opinion.