As for cash reserves, that can vary based on the age of the property, condition, location, etc...but I've always hear $10,000 per property (scales down per unit if you buy multiple) is a decent starting assumption.Flipping is active income (not bad for building wealth in the short term), buy/hold is more passive, and cash flow is great (playing the long game)...military installations often come with a decent amount of buy/hold opportunities due to the housing allowance service members receive.lower end is okay...if the neighborhood is.

However, if you really could liquidate and move $500k+ in equity that could easily generate $40k-$50k/year in income if you play your cards right.

I’m totally clueless how this will play out and tbh it seems like everyone else is as clueless as me.

The tax advantages can be powerful.

Fast forward a year later and I fell in love...I rescued my pup(pictured) from abandonment and decided I wanted a yard to play fetch and a garage I could store my car and also build a home gym. 

On the flip, I am now more confident when evaluating these lower value multifamily properties.I'm going to set up a meeting with my primary bank just to talk and get a feel for what price range I can play ball in.Thanks again everyone.

We had a tenant’s dad call last winter (he is an investor also) when there was widespread power outages.

Including only things that are "In Play" investmentwise.Leaving things out such as your wife's wedding ring, jewelry, your personal home(s), personal vehicle(s), boat, snowmobile, camper, personal cash reserves, etc...It depends on what you want to see decisionwise.Good Luck!

Since the contract is only between investors and providers, what is the role of turn-key company plays in the business?

It is one of the most powerful ways to kickstart your  way into REI.