If you are really interested in decentralized organizations (like blockchains), there is a book out there I would recommend that is called "The Spider and the Starfish" that discusses the power, adaptability, and resiliency of decentralized organizations in our society.

Postlets, acquired in 2011 and now owned by Zillow, (aka Zillow Rental Manager) and other rent centric sites like HotPads (also acquired by Zillow) fit in with Zillow's data focused model.

In the mean time I need cash flow to focus on my real estate business ventures.

Or not even start there at all and just focus on Colorado Springs?

Good investment properties are what make you money, so spend all of your time and money in the beginning just focusing on them.

I'll be watching the security cameras until the properties lose power.

Sometimes HELOC is the better option, but qualification can be a deciding factor.I'm a mortgage agent, my client list is about 50% investor focused.

We have focused on the industry to find our tenants, and our approach is working for us over the long haul.

The problem with illegal rentals is that the tenants have an inordinate amount of power if you end up in a disagreement.  

4) pointers to agents/brokers that focus in investment buyers in the area that may have a good track record and solid contacts?