The absolute best way to avoid taxes is not earn income.  

I was out of college (just earned my degree in Culinary Arts) and was constantly running out of money.

Offer a great first-stay experience with thoughtful touches like welcome gifts and clear communication to earn those initial positive reviews.For Big Bear’s rules, stay on top of local ordinances—maybe even connect with other hosts for advice.

We did out earn them.

You will still earn on them. 

The mortgage payment is $1,000 on each house, so you earn $500 per house or $2,000 monthly.

But let HIM earn it.

That said, if you are working for a company that does not allow real estate in their 401(k) setup (most dont allow) then I can see where you might look at where is best to put my hard earned dollars. 

If you move to NYC, focus on maximizing your earning potential while investing in affordable out-of-state markets with strong rental demand, like San Antonio or Indianapolis.

If I see a listing come up that I want access to ASAP, their value is earned by getting me in and drafting the contract as fast as possible.