I like that, unlike with say trading for a hedge fund, I can create opportunities for others rather than solely line the pockets of someone richer (that being said I still intend to make money).

Non traded public REIT? 

Can you do contracting work on properties and learn valuable skills that will help you remodel properties, flip them, or otherwise learn as much as possible about the construction trade? 

you have most certainly come to the right place to sync up with other investors and learn more about their experiences and trade strategies. 

Say that $500k is invested in a new trade or business - now it is business interest expense. 

Mom is a real estate agent and dad knows the trades.

With property insurers’ profitability and trade combined ratios improving, we can expect some relief soon.

I am on commission only compensation, so I moved back in with my parents, and am trading all of my time (60-70 hour work weeks) for little/no money. 

I'm presently a facilities engineer by trade, who does some construction and maintenance for landlords on the side, hoping to get back into the private real estate game.

I would tend to agree with the other CPAs typically.The 500-hour test is one of seven material participation tests used by the IRS to determine if a taxpayer is actively involved in a trade, business, or rental activity.