In general though I agree with Aaron, as I think the first couple investments are much easier to manage (and you will learn more) if you are close to the properties.

Sure does make it a lot easier to come up with reserves...

That older wood trim (pine, oak, etc) requires little to no maintenance.I've seen that trim in houses that are 60 years old and while the houses may have some significant issues, the trim still looks surprisingly good.My 2 cents would be to get another quote on the paint job without the doors or trim and see if the difference helps make your decision much easier.

As I understand, it actually makes it easier but I'm wondering if anyone has had experience with this before and could offer some guidance.

I like the clean feel of it.

With those numbers, I would rather invest in a 7-Eleven and clean Slurpee machines everyday.

The reasons I prefer individuals are:- I usually have their cell phone number, so much easier to get a hold of then trying to call an office line and leaving a voicemail- Simple statements, usually in Word or Excel and just simply say the income and expenses and total deposited- Way less players in the game, meaning the one guy handles a whole situation.

It's a great self-motivator - it's a lot easier to say "right, next property pays the water and electricity bill" than looking up at this mountain of what it takes to become financially independent.One way of approaching reaching your goal while not accumulating too many properties is this:- Figure out your comfortable living expenses, plus some money to continue investing once you're full-time.- Figure out how many properties that would take, if they were paid off.

I feel like it would be way easier to more accuratley determine fair market value of homes, avg rent in the area, etc...with a realtor.

Making the right moves is a lot easier when you have the right education/knowledge behind your decisions.