I guess my skepticism could more accurately be described as cautious optimism.

The type of REIT that you pick should be based on common-sense of course + your personal bias :-)   For instance, for optimal demographic trends you might look at hospital/healthcare REITS, high-end luxury property REITS, or self-storage REITS.

You have the optimal opportunity to:Insulation: quite cost effectively upgrade the walls to R24 - R26 for a 2x4 wall or R33 - R39 for a 2 x 6 wall and properly air seal the envelope.  

- Burn and Bury them From @Bryant Bagley- This would have been an optimal solution but the trailers are too close and the land too hilly, I like the thought though!

What are other ways to optimize NOI? 

you will get a context menu or drop down list with names of those that have posted in the thread.

What do you include for repairs, are the rents accurate or low for the area, do you need to include renovations to optimize the rent? 

5) I don't know what I don't know...what else should I be asking/knowing to optimize my performance in any given market? 

A drop down menu will appear with possible matches.

Here's how to turn them into WHY: I want the freedom I can achieve in Real Estate so that I can:1) have more time in the day to nurture myself physically as I try regain optimal health2) have more time to devote to my children as they are growing up3) have the money I need and want to sustain a lifestyle I can enjoy4) Learn as I progress in this field and meet the people who can teach me more than I ever thought possibleOK, I'm all ready to go now!