On paper returns, look excellent but when you put it into practice, you don't seem to get the same kinds of returns. 

Is this a predatory practice by PMs?

Find Brandon's videos on YouTube for the "four square" method of analyzing homes and practice.

So, this whole "you must live in the property for 1 year" claim that we see online seems to be completely baseless.

However, many times its just not practical or cost effective to put the work into it because in many cases its not easy to do.

Starting with three T-12s from properties of a similar size and market is a fantastic strategy, and I’ll definitely take your suggestion of setting aside time to really dig into the details.Thank you for the encouragement and practical tips—it’s advice I’ll take to heart as I move forward.

They have a form you can fill out and submit, might be able to do it online depending on the city.  

You don’t even have to attend some conferences, some will publish a list of their speakers and/or attendees and you could simply reach out directly after researching their firms online.

Account Closed You can do automated lead generation in several ways, depending on whether you're looking for seller leads, buyer leads or private lender leads.Seller Leads: (1) Lead Swiper (online lead search with dozens of targeted searches), (2) Instant Leads -- direct access to listed properties nationwide with a click (3) OfferBot, automated offer making software (I use this every day) (4) Direct Mail Connect (upload your own list or use lists out of Freedomsoft) -- my team manages a ton of direct mail in my real estate business using this, (5) SMS lead generation (I use this every day)...and that's just scratching the surface.Buyer Leads: (1) Nationwide Cash Buyer database (millions of buyer records at the click of a mouse) -- including buyer name, address and all property addresses they've bought including closing dates and prices paid

This is just one example but without some intense research online you may not learn this, but by speaking with someone very knowledgeable in your chosen areas you not only save time but may find even better opportunities.Best of luck!