Because it causes one to think about the way they invest, the reasoning behind their investments, and the success and failures their investment tactics and strategies have produced.I make a decision to pursue a real estate investment (or really any investment) based on an evaluation of risk vs return.  

ST rentals are much more profitable and command cash flows are often higher than in the US if you buy the right property in the right market.As an international investor, I find Ladislas Maurice interesting but there are different types of international investors and most international investors I know wouldn't go through the hassle of what he does for the kind of returns that he gets.

Because you are forcing equity into the house you are sometimes able to pull back out the entire purchase and rehab process to return to your investor then you own the home with just the mortgage.

Returns are great if you get a good area and build a solid team but thats going to take some leg work in picking the right people that see's your vision. 

If they are self employed and their income on their tax returns is understated because of deductions you can use data from bank statements.

I would probably start by analyzing the current returns you are getting on the 13 properties.

I sat out the boom bust since 2008 and focused on returning to full health after a spine injury.

Awesome and as far as tax deductions do you still do them to get a return or do you only do those so you don’t get taxed on your rental income 

I plan to continue to invest in a mix of both RE syndication and our own rental properties going forward depending on what makes the most sense and offers the best returns. 

Prove yourself, and they will want to return the favor.