I also played sports during my college career (swimming), nationally and internationally.

Really easy to just play the blame game at this point.You might just have to eat it.

The deposit thing doesn't come into play until the tenant has vacated the property so that's not the real issue.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that anyone using 1031s as a deliberate thought out strategy who ends up in worse shape at the end of the game has a problem with execution and use of the tool. 

A lot of investors are having a tough time with appreciation plays penciling out right now because (1) they feel that prices are elevated (2) their prediction for future appreciation is not as high or as predictable as it has been for them in the past and (3) the cash flow is low.Real estate is local though and there are opportunities at every point in the cycle (#7 above). 

Partnering up with people, especially with experienced investors, is another great way to get into the game.

This is very, very old game that keeps getting recycled looking for new people.....it’s s waste of time for 98% of the people.

If you are only using the 50% rule to calculate cash flow you will probably get into trouble.Alot of other variables come into play like age of roof, windows, HVAC, etc. 

It's like saying I play "sports." 

I also like a lot of water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, diving, fishing, foraging, and motorcycle stuff.I can justify the expense because I call it a "business facility" and I always love going in there to organize and play with my toys or work on my ventures.