Find a process that works for you, and make sure everything aligns with that process.4) This isn't without its challenges - REI in general.  

The thing is, I don't want to have to worry about doing something like this to cover an expense.So, if that's the case, then do I need to more closely align myself and my criteria with what that article suggests, and make sure that I do not skimp on the cap ex?

I learned to say No to deals that did not align with my goals and am back on track!

Its the same thing in cheap markets were they sell say 130k new construction.. those deals usually have 10 to 15% gross margins so they are making 13 to maybe 20k if they are really lucky net profit but getting good leverage and pumping out 50 in a year.We will build about 40 homes this year.. so while we don't hit homeruns we make it up in volume and god willing the market holding and the star's aligning and every other lucky charm we can pull .Like @Will Barnard even though it was an outlier for us we did a 5 million dollar flip and made 1.5 on it.. but that was not something we could recreate .. and I don't have the stones to do that these days.. with my cheaper homes I know my bank will let me make them into rentals if they don't sell and with the rents the way they are they would cash flow or be a tiny bit negative as we rode out the market... 

As far as fb posts, are you worried he is not politically aligned with you, or was there a post which made you concerned?

Any of them will work, but it will likely work out better for you if you pick one that aligns best with you and what you want. 

Quick note: Identify your long-term goals, then take the advice here and cater it to align with those goals.

@Jonathan Steiger Investing is never a wrong time if the investment is sound and makes sense, and aligns with your goals.

From there you learn by aligning yourself with the right partner and getting out there and doing it. 

., expenses align with projected budget, minimizing unit turns or lease-ups, maximizing occupancy, achieving rental premium projections, etc.)What do you expect from the property management company in regards to reporting (i.e. what types of reports, frequency, etc.)?