https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/042415/what-average-annual-return-sp-500.aspWith all due respect, that idea is so preposterous that it's hard to even know how to respond. 

With respect to fees, you will want to ask a PM what they charge for a management fee, leasing fee, fee to complete maintenance work, set up fees, and what happens with late fees and other income?

No respectable contractor is going to waste his time " consulting " for  you .

Betting on a strong dollar, lower asset prices, a deflationary environment, and locking in cheap assets with low interest rates by having cash on hand, good credit, and good relationships with lenders now is what I'm going to bank on.I know a lot of people don't agree with this sentiment, but each to their own and I respect all of your opinions. 

A lot of forum members are very knowledgeable in their respective fields related to real estate investing, whether that is real estate sales, wholesaling, flipping, rentals, lending, self-directed IRA and Solo 401k investing, or tax and legal guidance.Discounts on some products and services are offered to BP members: https://www.biggerpockets.com/perks/proIf you haven’t been to it already, you might want to check out the BP blog: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/

I know you have a lot of experience, but respectfully disagree.

I am happy to keep her as a tenant because she keeps tidy, pays on time, doesn’t smoke, doesn’t ask for much, and is super nice/respectful.

MelanieHere's well respected and is responsible for helping a lot of folks just like you get started.

I respect your position. 

However if you respect them and develop a relationship, they'll likely serve you better than any alternative.