If there's a hole, it may be a red flag.b) sensitivity analysis: I examine all the assumptions, and make sure I can live with the worst case scenarios.c) "Stall and see": if they are getting money over multiple years, and there is no penalty for investing later, I would usually wait so I get some real performance data, versus having to look at theoretical pro forma information.d) Recession stress test: I will not invest in anything, until I subject it to recession level stress and see if I can live with the result.

Depending on the neighborhood, there simply might not be a lot of demand but I would not get discouraged.

If you are near the end of your journey and simply looking for stability and low overhead then I could see paying off mortgages, however that is not the most adventegous from a wealth building perspective. 

The area is growing like crazy and there simply is not enough housing.

No risk, just reward—whether for personal deals, joint ventures, or simply passing along awesome prospects to each other, I’m always actively prospecting for new deals and sharing them with my network.Let’s collaborate, learn, and grow together!

Do you go direct-to-seller to find your deals or do you simply purchase from the MLS or wholesellers?

Assuming you meet real estate professional status (which it seems like you do - you'll just want to have a time log verifying) AND materially participate in your rentals, you simply wouldn't get that big of a year one benefit. 

One reason is the county is simply an agent for the State real property tax's are state funds then deligated back to the counties.

Especially given the NAR settlement, that just jacked up attorneys nationwide to find the next "honey-hole".  

I have had clothes with holes in them going to work when I had a job because I didn't have money for food not alone 10 dollars for more pants back then.I went out to Barnes and Noble bookstore and started reading in the store.