After reading Amanda Han's book "Tax Strategies for the Savvy Real Estate Investor" (highly recommend), I've reassessed my current tax preparer and realize the importance of using a CPA who specializes in real estate.

Also, when I bought more properties, she seemed concerned, and advised me not to buy anymore properties lest my tax preparation fee become too high.

How should i go about preparing my taxes.

I've already priced out 75% that is required including the big what if scenario of increasing water supply line,  I've got a long list of things that are needed, i've been preparing for something like this since I purchased 3 years ago.

I am a do it your self kind of person and currently using H&R Block tax software to prepare my tax documents for this year.

I see home investing as a way to diversify my wealth into another sector in preparation for retirement. 

Immediately after settlement go back to the market (actually it is the under-market you need to go to or create)   and find some deals you can flip to increase your cash flow.This is a wonderful business and there are many opportunities if you are prepared to do business. 

Are you guys factoring in tax hikes in your purchases or preparing for increases for your current portfolio?

You better practice and be prepared to use it or why have it.

Once I got a firm understanding of real estate (enough to be dangerous, but always continuing to learn) I went on to Step 2 - Preparing my finances.