If you have more time than money, then direct real estate is most likely your only choice.The downside is that if someone is brand new like you, they have a much higher than normal chance of making expensive mistakes.2) With syndication/Crowdfunding, once you identify the sponsor you do not have to do anything else. 

Read some material online (and we're going to higher CPA later) but seems that mortgage interest can be shown as an expense on Schedule E. 

@Steven Navarro  based on 9 other 3 bedroom units within 1 mile - they are getting on average $1400 - $1500 / month per unit - you may be able to go up a little for a brand new build - but the chances of $2400 per unit are slim to none - you can rent out a mini mansion in Clovis for less than that.

This home features brand new Flooring, carpet, brand new kitchen, all wood cabinets with soft close drawers and hinges, quartz countertops, new stainless steel appliances, new fully finished bathrooms, new interior and exterior paint, new central HVAC, new dual pane windows, new roof, new water heater and all new lighting throughout.

New builds can be weird because your house is worth a good amount less than the brand new one close to it.All that being said, for me I'd look at it as if I was going to buy the house today at the the numbers you're getting, and then compare them to what you could get. 

They reported their rental income and all expenses on Schedule E, and want to report the sale of the house on Schedule D and Form 8949.

I am brand new to real estate investing, but have have been intrigued with it for years.

Especially with the brand new finishes you have a huge appeal to HGTV spoiled first time home buyers; with the right strategy you can often drive a little bidding war and maximize your return.

What brand of composting toilet did you use?

The house is super renovated with polished hard wood floors, brand new paint job,  updated appliances and kitchen, and both bathrooms are updated and super modern.