This experience has instilled in me a deep sense of dedication and customer focus.However, my path has led me to discover a true passion for real estate and helping others achieve their financial goals and attain the American dream.

I know I got into RE Investing to diversify my portfolio out of equities and gain financial freedom, not to have answer the deep questions about life; however, knowing where you want to go and why makes planning the route easier and putting in the extra hours have a purpose.I'm sure you've heard of it, but your goals should be SMART (Specific, measurable, attainable relevant, and timely) You're more than half way there with $450k gross rental income.

This is a great thread, and I admit the benefits of a great REI education are many, and it's critical to have...though I think we all agree on the multiple ways of attaining that education.  

I would say that's pretty easily attainable. 

However, those numbers are completely attainable.

Define your goals using the SMART goal approach (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely).

Is attaining “real estate professional” status even worth it?

I get $483,614.After 10 years, you have nearly $860K in equity, so you're almost a millionaire...But, like Wheatie pointed out, you've spent over $400K to get to that point.So, while the author could argue semantics to conclude that you've almost attained millionaire status in 10 years, most people would say you're only halfway there...

Roi is a tool for comparing whether attaining that actual profit was worth it relative to other deals.

But property values are quite high and return on investment in current cash flow is harder to attain- but appreciation can be a big plus.