That's a common phrase.Real estate investors can get more bang for their buck from their PMs when these folks "think like an investor."

The most common options used by investors seem to be an LLC or Umbrella Insurance. 

The red flag for me was common sense.

Only thing better would be initial deposit and then paid in full upon Certificate of Occupancy and punchlist complete.Of course, standard items should also be checked: licensed, insured, willing and able to pull all required permits, reference checks.I would also commonly avoid the cheapest bid you get.  

This in itself is an understated benefit because its a real pain having to explain to a lender, prospective employer etc. why your name is in the docket. 

@Rud Sev, I would ask the syndicators you are considering if they have any sample K-1s they have issued in the past to try to get a general idea of how they treat their common taxable items.There are a few things that are likely needed to be outlined:Your capital account balance for the investment, i.e. how much money the syndicator is saying you have outstanding at any time and used to calculate preferred returns, can vary from your taxable capital balance shown on K-1.  

the only way i'd encourage you to invest in one of them though is if you're actually going to put time and effort into visiting and building a team and employing some kind of strategy. 

You should target states that have more common sense and people oriented government and regulations (hint-hint: stay AWAY from Dem controlled jurisdictions.

To gain investor confidence, ensure the investment property numbers are real, use the most common contract forms in your state (versus a 2 or 3-page) internet/guru contract form) with appropriate addenda, or an attorney-drafted form and attorney-drafted assignment agreement.

Make sure everyone knows a cleaning schedule, expectation for common areas, how are you splitting utilities, guest policy, etc.