your onsite manager is a huge component of your success. working with them so they understand the goal of the property is crucial for success. buying in the right area will boost your profits.

Building your team/networking is crucial but it is important to know what type of method(s) you are interested in pursuing (flip, BRRRR, str/ltr, etc).

It's very apples to oranges. 

Thanks for the reply.I live in the Los Angeles area (Orange County to be precise).

Keeping detailed records of your time spent on property management tasks is crucial for documenting your eligibility for REPS.

Very disappointed to read this thread .I learned from Scott a lot, in fact I was inspired by his vast knowledge and call for action and became an educator myself.I think vetting business partners as well as vendors is crucial in our business, and apparently being a good educator doesn't guaranty a good investment manager.

But I understand rentals is apples and Oranges to what I do today for income which is building new homes and bridge debt capital partner..

It’s an appreciation play, not a cash flow play.Get on the green line or the orange line and check neighborhoods around each stop.

That’s crucial. 

Operational efficiency is also crucial; optimizing operating expenses and implementing tenant retention strategies, such as lease renewal incentives or adding desirable amenities, can stabilize your cash flow and reduce costs, helping maintain profitability even if rents decrease.Investing in property improvements, such as value-add opportunities and energy-efficient upgrades, can command higher rents and retain property value better than average units.