Minimal HOA.Assuming that rent, 20% down payment, 50% vacancy rate, the cash flow would not be super, but one of the main reasons for my interest in real estate in the immediate present is the effect in reducing our taxable income, rather than for providing replacement income.

As a CPA, I have a general knowledge of tax, having passed REG (tax portion of the CPA) but want to grow that knowledge effectively in the real estate space.

As a CPA, I have a general knowledge of tax, having passed REG (tax portion of the CPA) but want to grow that knowledge effectively in the real estate space.

It's a snowball effect. 

Typically big changes like this get some kind of grandfather clause so it only effects money decisions starting after it passes. 

Have some of you used these third party sites to great effect? 

@Tamer Almasri The one thing that I would add to what Ian said is if you're planning on buying a value-add property that needs significant sweat equity, depending on what state it is in, the FHA is less likely to be an effective lending option.

Evictions are never cost effective...

This can help keep occupancy consistent and can lessen the effects of tenant turnover, along with the timeliness of finding a new renter. 

If they don't fix your issues in a day or two (meaning they realize the significance and the potential for massive adverse effects on their livelihoods, you'll probably never get your money.