Whether it's something that eats up your time or just feels like a never-ending task, I'd love to hear your thoughts! 

My point being is that I was lucky in the fact that I purchased my 4-plex at the right time and in the right market as it appreciated.

Data and Analysis Tools: Making Informed DecisionsReal estate investing is about more than just buying properties; it’s about making smart investments that will give you a strong return over time.

A few at a time is totally okay.

It took a little while to get them to trust me, but we've developed great relationships over time. 

Full renovation with new concrete driveway and new concrete walk out basement.

Although I believe I can see the path to my first rental easily, I'm having a hard time figuring out how I'd get to the next one. 

I prefer buying during this time of year as the prices are usually lower and the competition is taking a nap because they generally do not want to move in the winter. :)Also, keep in mind that rent rates are also generally lower in the "winter" months so you may not get peak rent from your current home. 

However, I would not recommend relying on this - better to be on the safe side of legal compliance.You can also submit grey area questions directly to the New Jersey Real Estate Commission.That said, if a company owns real estate, and another company is the manager of real estate, and that manager company gets some time of compensation or arguably holds itself out as doing the business of a broker, you would need a license or should get one to be on the safe side.

It's a very common mistake where an investor sold and bought properties and then when it's tax time they find out they didn't do the right process to actually qualify as a 1031 exchange.