Let's keep this as simple as possible....Ex 1: 3 single-family rentals, value $300-400 each.

What guarantees they'll be made whole in simple terms? 

If you get the conventional mortgage and it records as a first lien that’s simple every day deal.

You can usually find some events by doing a simple google search.

My book on Turnkey Real Estate Investing - Simple Concepts to Overcome Analysis Paralysis and Acquire Your First Rental Property in 29 Days (this title is a work in progress) should be released before the end of October.

We like the KISS method (keep it simple & for the stupid)

If you spend all that money on a DIY buy the best glue you can.

This will potentially allow me to pay no tax on the capital gain as I will be in a low enough tax bracket to pay 0 capital gain.Bottom line is they are very convenient, and simple but more restrictive and higher fees, resulting in a sub-optimal IRR.  

I keep the lease simple: One year and all tenants are jointly and severally liable.

It's a simple concept and is very easy to understand.