, you can reduce your risk of getting a "professional tenant" who knows how to abuse the system. 

It is ordinary and necessary for real estate investors to notice wear and tear from year to year and claim "depreciation" on their properties.The rule that your accountant is referencing to is the "real estate professional status" which allows you net losses from your rental activities with your other income if your adjusted gross income is above $150,000.

Another factor that comes into play is that I represent the target market that I intend to serve (traveling business professionals).

Much of the following depends on your capabilities and cash position, but I've always given people the advice to buy their first home with a 'safe' outlook with regards to appreciation, and schools.I don't know where you are at in life - if you've already made your first purchase, etc - but so far so good on those that have taken my advice.I think later on in life, if someone so desires and/or has the knack, is when it's appropriate to get into what a lot of folks on these forums do - the more aggressive projects where there's more money to be made.This is a round about answer but yes it's possible. 

Looking to network with real estate professionals in my area including but not limited to real estate agents, wholesalers, private lenders, tax professionals, and contractors.

Professional management is an option.How worried should I be?

I tended to assume that most people wouldn’t reply so negatively and would be respectful in their answers as well (feel free to see the rest of the professional, helpful replies on this thread, for reference). 5.

., combined pool for downpayment, rehab, professional services, etc.).On that note, I'd assumed I would use leverage and have estimated 25% down, but I'm open to interesting cash plays.I 100% insist on using property management, and all of my planning includes that cost.Ideally I'd like to hit ~8+% cash-on-cash return after all is said and done (taxes, payments, repairs, insurance, PM fees, capex, professional services, estimated cost of vacancy and turnover, etc.).

I know price points when it comes to materials and vetting contractors and professional services3.

Using handwritten solicitation letters might help you.Keeping up with people that give weekly webinars like Paperless Agents talk alot about real estate marketing and how important it is to have knowledge, using professional-looking pictures and video, and popular Social Media advertising.