I've been documenting my company's progress and lessons learned as we've grown.

Many investors think they understand value, but really don’t.This is one of the biggest problems ALL investors have, not just real estate investors.Those who have the ability to recognize value -- and more importantly, to recognize when real value is misaligned with market value -- will succeed in any aspect of investing far beyond the masses.This is the lesson that Warren Buffett has taught us for 30 years now...and it's the reason he's been able to amass a $40B fortune.

This is a lesson to anyone starting out: Get a prenup.

@Sid Leibowitz, this is a lesson for me for sure.

Of course new home builds costs even less on the take-off sheet pricing.We are finding that these trim finishes are becoming standard in even mid-level homes while the wains is a distinctive added-value.  

Bottom line my lesson learnt was to do things properly, by the book and with proper paperwork so as to avoid getting picked apart by anybody if court action is required.

positive cash flow investment and almost tripled in appreciation in the handfull of years since I bought it Lessons learned?

Also another big lesson is that you'll probably have a greater chance to be extraordinary in your endeavors if you enjoy doing them.

We have had 2 "bad" tenants so I have some lessons learned the hard way under my belt as well.

You'll have some big hits along the way, and some tough lessons learned.