Can the landlord also collect attorney fees from the defaulting tenant?

That helps some...but your variable expenses also go up too - property insurance & taxes - so a lot of your rent increases go to offset rising variable expenses.I started at the age of 47 in 2018 and we bought properties fast and furious - 12 the first year, 10 the next, and 9 in 2021 and currently have 38 properties. 

This appears to be a 'transfer tax' instead of an income tax. 

Of course our big motivation is commission but you can get commission or a referral fee or something in an off market transaction if done properly.

I spoke with Daniel E who seemed like a nice guy but as I learned more he told me there was a $1200 yearly fee to be a member.

There are consulting companies who do this (for a fee) and i can also share some contacts if you need some. 

I didn’t see your location in your profile or your post, but assume at least 17% state/federal taxes leaves you with $10k/yr. 

Since the trust is a disregarded entity, the benefit is bypassing  probate, not tax issues or liability concerns. 

Maintenance and potential repairs will also require a long-term financial plan and setting aside a contingency fund for such expenses.The steady cash flow, appreciation over time, and tax benefits can make a meaningful difference to your wealth in the long term, especially with the principal paydown on the mortgage.However, if managing the property from a distance feels too burdensome, or if you’d prefer the certainty and flexibility that comes with having less debt (especially given the high mortgage rates), selling and using the $100,000 in equity to reduce your loan for your next home may be the smarter move.

You can also hold money for maintenance, capex, taxes, insurance, or other projected expenses.