The government has proven over the last 100 years that it cannot solve problems like affordable housing.

I recommend continuing to hold personally and to continue to keep it separate from your spouse.Oh and keep in mind CA may not recognize your 1031.

I think we will have some bumps in the near future, but our economy has proven to be pretty resilient, I believe it will continue to weather the storm enough to not fall off a cliff, and as long as rents hold or continue to increase, and jobs in industries other than o & g continue to be created or hold steady, it still makes sense from an investment standpoint.

Unfortunately, this eliminates the house hacking option which I recognize would be my easiest introduction to being an investor/landlord.  

I've recognized an appetite for high(er)-end MFH's that have been done well and all systems in & out replaced to reduce/eliminate any near-term Capex going forward.

Without having any properties of my own at this point, my ability to analyze numbers is not proven.

If it was a complex button pushing exercise and not easily recognized I would pay.

I led a mortgage company to 3 years of Inc. 5000 honors (2007, 2008, 2009), including being recognized as the 86th. fastest growing financial services company in the United States.

If you use an agent, they will have proven contracts.

Generally my rents have increased between $100-$200 per year, although this last time has proven a bit more difficult.Well, that's my success story!