RE money has highs and lows, when you couple it with now having a company sponsored health plan, I am in far better shape doing both...If/when my Real Estate activities make me 3 times what my JOB does in consistent income, I may consider quitting.

In some cities check to see if there Health Department work orders.

Possibly health dept. regulations.

I read the complaint letter from the health department and I agreed to do everything that was asked of me (and then some).During this time my tenant harassed me saying that I didn't care about her health and that she wanted to move out of the apartment.

You definitely want to get your own set of contractors out to give you an opinion on the tree's health and to also give you pricing, so you know there is no "funny business" going on with pricing hikes and kickbacks.  

Never had a bubble or a crash in the 2000s because it is a very stable market anchored by the state government, universities, and health care.  

Especially when one's personal situation changes (e.g. job loss, health etc).

Like I said, you will need to investigate, zoning, city ordinances, insurance, permits/licenses, health codes (if you have anything over 4 units, with more than 1 floor, you will be under ADA compliance jurisdiction), and irate neighbors.

I remember one of my sergeants asking me if I really wanted to do this—give up the retirement, health benefits, and steady paycheck.  

On the flip side he has done little to nothing for me and I get these sob stories that the sellers are old and in bad health and so they need the money.