@Evan KreppsMy take, at least ... keep it simple for the first one. 

In low appreciation markets where the return is historically not from appreciation (where appreciation does not noticeable exceed CPI) then it makes more sense to pay down the loan amount to increase the cash flow but there are still better options because F/F home financing (even with the rate increases) is some of the cheapest money options available.  

It's just math, know ALL your numbers, YES, it's that simple. 

You may be saving money short term, but it does not mean you’re increasing your long term expected yields.  

It's also upsetting her kids' skin because it is so harsh, so a simple drinking water filter isn't a favored solution. 

@John D.To learn more about what qualifies as self-employment income in order to open a solo 401k plan, see the following: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-se...Also, IRS Publication 560 (the publication for self-employed plans such as SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, ans solo 401k plans) has a section that gives examples of self-employment activity.

This will increase the return above what can be obtained on a passive investment.The flipside of having the power to control everything is that it can be alot of work (and a full-time job if a person is putting in sweat equity).

At least here in the Kansas City metro (and in Oregon where I am from), it's pretty simple and relatively quick.

With insurance premiums for apartment properties increasing so dramatically in recent years, I am leaning towards trying to save some costs by increasing my deductible to the highest deductible possible.  

They are not building this, and the tenant demand continues to increase.