3.) if you speak to a potential tenant, and you think they could be a match you can have them apply and schedule a showing. 

Also take note of different addresses on whatever documentation they do provide...State ID or DL, paychecks, bank statements etc. to see if they match with their "story".

Pick an asset class: Class A, B, C & D properties, research pros & cons, pick one to focus onPick a real estate market that matches your resources & goalsContact local agents & PMC’s to start sending you listings to analyzeAnalyze a few deals weekly, get comfortable with the market and refine what you're looking forIf you can't be physically at a property inspection your PMC should be there with the inspector to make sure everything possible is noted.

For my rentals, my categories match what goes onto SchE so I can simply copy my sums over when I prepare my returns.If you want to use a paper ledger (I'm guessing that is your question since you didn't pose a single question), I know you can still buy them. 

HI Joe,Brian is the expert and everything he has said matches my understanding. 

I personally have rentals here in Houston, the cash-on-cash return and appreciation are steady.You need a team of local professionals like property managers, contractors, agents etc.A local Investor-Agent can help shorten your learning curve and save you a lot of headaches as they tend to understand the market better.You should select a market that will meet your investment goals.Here are four key reasons why investors purchase rental property out of state:Invest in geographic areas with population and job growth is strong.Diversify a rental property portfolio with markets that best match your investment strategy.Focus on the type of returns you’re looking for, such as maximum cash flow, high appreciation, or total yield over the targeted holding period.Operating expenses are lower in markets with fewer regulations, lower property taxes, and landlord-friendly laws.Finally, as mentioned earlier, it's crucial to build a great network of professionals to help you and to occasionally visit your property yourself.All the best!

.; matching furniture, stylish rugs and throw pillows on the couch, no Star Wars or Pulp Fiction posters on the walls, etc.).

We try to do BRRRRs which are what we call absolute zeros - cash out refi matches our money in, and cash flow is zero (but on a 15 year amortization loan). 

Also, the quality of finishings should match your neighborhood rating to some degree.  

I used it to collect referral fees for the real estate match-making part of my career.Do any of you have recommendations in the state of Utah for me, especially in St George / Southern Utah, though anywhere in state should work?