You can see what works (equity capture at the buy for example can increase your net worth instantly), what doesn't work, what's within your control, and what may be out of your control (negative year in the stock market). 

But I think we all agree that it's easy to get burned in these midwest markets that are attractively priced.

Their neighborhood selection process is key in affording investors a home in an area that instantly produces positive cash flow and high probability to earn above average market appreciation over the long term.

Finding undervalued properties is a great way to instantly build equity, but this takes a lot of work as well.

It has nothing to do with how good they are but might be an indicator that they are running a good business where they get to pick their clients.I have seen many reviews or burn posts here totally messing up a firms reputation where it did not seem the vendor did anything wrong and that it was mostly a highly picky client.

For whatever mix of these factors, the property burned through its cash reserves and has slightly negative cash flow.  

I never use average rehab cost/sqft because every building is different from what I have rehabbed so far in the past 15 years, but here are some general estimates for youCosmetic rehab: $11 - $25 per square footLight rehab: $26 - $50 per square footFull gut rehab: $51 - $90+ per square footThe biggest cash buyers of properties in the CLT include:iBuyers (instant buyers) such as Opendoor, Offerpad, and RedfinNowInstitutional investors like Invitation Homes, American Homes 4 Rent, and Tricon ResidentialReal estate investment trusts (REITs) like Equity Residential and AvalonBay CommunitiesPrivate equity firms and hedge funds like Blackstone and Cerberus Capital ManagementLocal and regional real estate investors and investment groups

I previously lost 85 lbs but put it back on after being burned out.

Having burned with few tenants, I am considering to tenant income and asset verification on top of regular background check.

Remember mortgage burning parties?