Play it safe since the deduction ends up being fairly minimal.Lastly, talk to a professional. 

Networking in the DC, MD & VA Area?

However, with the 3 private placement sponsors I have invested with in many deals (soon to be 5), there is an air of professionalism that is palpable.What is your experience?

There aren't many investment vehicles in a TSP aside from the funds the few funds they have.Would it be possible or even legal (I know, seek professional legal advice yada yada) to continue contributing 5% (or more) into my TSP to take advantage of the "free money" being matched by the government and then roll the balance every year into a tax deferred SD-IRA so I can invest that money freely? 

I have decided to do short term rentals of my home in baltimore to travel nurses and other traveling professionals.

If you can't get a professional looking job, it will look like the tenants (novices) painted it, and will lower the desirability of the unit for the next occupants.Keep with neutral, off-white colors, keep it simple--it will broaden the appeal to the greatest number of potential renters.

They are simply free lancers, driving for car shared companies, or becoming Task Rabbiters and Thumbtack professionals.  

In my view, homeowner's insurance + umbrella + professional property manager should be good enough to (i) prevent lawsuits and (ii) protect you sufficiently if the worst happens. 

Although I do property management for my own houses, I like to recommend @Craig Bellot to manage other properties, as he is very professional. 

Is there a source for the following data;  I am looking for the "norm" for the expense ratio (based on either GPR or Gross Income) for individually metered garden style apartments in the south east and the mid Atlantic (Region IV) : Marketing Insurance Janitorial Service Lawn/Snow Licenses Miscellaneous Professional Fees Accounting Legal Property Management Fees Repairs and Maintenance Resident Superintendent Salaries and Wages Supplies Taxes Real Estate Personal Property Payroll Other Trash Removal Utilities Electricity Fuel Oil Gas Sewer and Water Telephone Other (whatever I missed)