But the answer for everyone may differ.Here are the personal attributes I see in those able to achieve a higher than market ROI, enough higher to be able to “scale”.1- Knowledge of real estate principles, real estate law and real estate finance2- Minimum 3 -5 years full time, or near full time experience directly related to real estate investing3- Ability to utilize technology for increased efficiency, capacity, and accuracy4- Excellent hired legal counsel and excellent hired marketing help5- Established method(s) of obtaining consistently high QUALITY deal flow6- Ability to manage and choose people who are NOT employees: Attorneys, Appraisers, Mortgage Brokers, Real Estate Brokers, Title Companies, Surveyors, Marketing Specialists, Accountants, Contractors, Consultants, Property Managers7- A VERIFIABLE track record of success8- Ability to identify, analyze, and negotiate a deal that can be “worked” for “enhanced” ROI9- Some type of competitive advantage; for example for me it’s my ability to analyze and identify mortgage loans that are actually less risky than all other lenders believe (on the investing in debt side), and on the real property side it’s my ability to analyze”pull the trigger” with LESS information than other investors need,  combined with the ability to pay cash, or raise significant capital almost instantly as well as being able to obtain loans at the lowest prime customer bank rate with no recourse or personal liability.  

But you need a seller who understands, trusts you enough and has a long view to see the advantage.

Another downside is you loose on the advantages, of the Federal Tax Code, by not closing in the name of a LLC/ LLC taxed as an S Corp, or an S Corp.If you want to close in the name of a LLC/ LLC taxed as an S Corp, or an S Corp, Mortgage Lenders will offer you Commercial Loan Terms (25-30% down, a 15-25 year amortization, and a ballon due in 5-7 years).

I'm sure they are taking advantage of people.

Here's an example:I like to do mine in total and by property.I know I'll get questions about the debt categories.  

Your tax bill ? What have you seen make the biggest impact ? As agents I think marketing and vehicles can be the biggest tax deductions can not ? But not sure wanted to see what everyone thought?

Having cash ready to deploy is a huge advantage.

DSCR loans will not be advantageous when compared to conventional loans.

If you have self-directed accounts and are your own custodian, this burden is on you.Use your employer's tax-advantaged benefits.

It's much cheaper and closer and they don't lose two entire days of their holiday week traveling.Obviously, this doesn't mean you can't make money if you have the right hotel at the right place to take advantage of the travel resurgence.