It isn't having paid off properties that offers security, there are still taxes, insurance, maintenance and management involved. 

Are these forums a good place to connect with managing partners for JVs or syndications?

Seems like such a waste but nobody can agree on a new portfolio manager as the old manager was a family friend for multiple generations and well trusted.

There are companies also that just tunnel. 

Cleveland and Dayton can be great markets for high cash flow and low purchase prices, but you need to be careful when navigating the neighborhoods so you're not buying in a D/F class area where no property managers will manage and where you'll never see any positive cash flow.

For over a decade, I’ve focused on multifamily acquisitions and asset management with firms ranging from small boutique offices to large syndicators.

Eric,, I think why people go for the fund model is the idea that they are spreading their money into multiple notes being held by the company.. while in theory this is great but as you noted you don't really have any security compared to being the beneficiary of the debt instrument IE debt is in your name. 

Managing a rental property can be challenging, especially if it’s your first experience.

That's up to my operatione manager.

I have 3 homes managed by a property manager.