As I evaluate this, I figured I'd share my account with my bookkeeper, but then realized that would also give them access to my accounts.Don't get me wrong, I like Baselane so far, but this might be a fatal flaw for me.

I'd encourage you to evaluate the REIT first, then the DST second.

Are there specific factors or trends you would suggest evaluating to make a more informed decision?

Being in North Carolina gives you a great mix of in-state potential and easy access to nearby markets.As you connect with others, don’t hesitate to ask about any specific steps in wholesaling, flipping tips, or how to evaluate rental properties.

I would also evaluate where you are at in life in regards to kids?

I would evaluate at least 5 properties if there are that many in the area.  

They will evaluate critical factors like land grades, water and sewer systems, and overall feasibility.

My wife and I are currently evaluating a 9-unit MF in my old hometown.

While all the posts have at lease some legitimate points, I personally believe camp 1 is missing the opportunities present to protect assets under US law mostly because they don’t either understand asset protection, or don’t want to bother with it, so rather than do a proper evaluation they dismiss it as something that won’t work to justify their unwillingness to entertain the idea.Camp 2 is deluding themselves - which delusion has been enhanced by charlatans writing books, giving seminars, and selling packaged plans all of which either attempt to hide your assets or hide the ownership of your assets.  

I knew it was a unique real estate market .. but sadly all the risks I evaluated were correct.