So I require skin in the game (average is 5% to 15%) to offset this.

We debate selling it all the time but we know homes in CA usually always increase in value and it is just a waiting game and we can’t sell it right now and make a profit yet.

Hello, I am completely new to real estate investing and was hoping to find out from people who have been in the game for a while what a realistic earning potential would be from accumulating long term rentals over time. 

Another close friend got all this guys bank statements etc and found hundreds of thousands being wired to casinos right after he received wires.  

Real Estate is the long game, not the get rich quick theme we hear on social media. 

I guess I just rolled with it because I had 45 days to play the game or call in my chips with a +30% payout to the government.   

You can find loads of articles, videos, and online courses that'll give you a solid foundation in construction basics.Network and Find a Mentor: Try connecting with people who've been in the game for a while.

But I looking at the long game - I want valued tenants that take care of the property and minimize wasting my time.

This is part of the game.

I've been in the real estate game for over 20 years and have done my fair share of transactions, including condos and multifamily properties.