We invest in real estate in one or two niches we are we are both knowledgeable of and comfortable with after spending a lot of times educating ourselves and becoming comfortable with real estate as a passive, or semi-active, part-time endeavor. 

There is no reason that should hold you back in any niche." 

I'm assuming because everything else was somewhat cookie cutter for him and this is a unique transaction for both him and I.

I'm, of course, talking in generalities because each specific case has its own set of unique circumstances, but we're seeing a lot of people who were traditionally flippers altering part of their focus to a buy-and-hold mentality - and they're seeing even greater ROI.

I agree there are a handful of niches to learn but keep at it!

Loopnet is so legit, it has a Wikipedia page:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LoopNet"LoopNet is the most heavily trafficked commercial real estate marketplace online with more than 8 million registered members and 5 million unique monthly visitors." 

Point out to the appraiser items that are new or of especially good quality, as well as unique features that might improve it's value.

The typical team has Attornies/Lawyers, real estate Agents/Brokers, a CPA (or accountants you know and trust), Inspectors, Property Managers, General Contractors, and Handymen.There are several other main things you should do after you select a niche and property area market.  

If you have any interest in that area for your business, you can check out what the market for cleaners for small-medium property management companies is like in your area, and whether it would be a good niche for you.

I'm a partner in a sort of unique company that is a full service appraisal firm (all property types) but also provides civil engineering (mainly subdivision design and development), land surveying and title analysis services.