Stop snooping through their Facebook pages.

When something, especially financing, is too good to be true, it probably is For sure.Always rely on sites like BiggerPockets Lenders page or robust google reviews when going with any lender

We have a 14-page management contract that we've added our real experiences to over the years, with the intent of protecting both us AND the landlord.

Look in Bigger Pockets in the Events & Happenings page, I think this is the link:https://www.biggerpockets.com/...There are a bunch of events in Nassau & Suffolk County where you can meet other investors & find out what you want to know, I post mine monthly on this forum

Both me and the tenants are part of the neighborhood facebook page and I see that they've posted about having a cat. 

This helps to ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page and working towards the same goals.2.

Apartment Central Property Management is great, they have a Facebook page. 

They typically want 2 pay stubs, 2 tax returns, insurance declaration pages, copies of lease, etc.

IMO I'd rather have that capital easily accessible than tied in a 401K.If we're just talking retire early, say 40 years old, then yes put money into 401K as soon as you start your job at 22 and let it ride.I think we're on same page, maybe just didn't clarify my thoughts enough above :)

@David Miller ask nicely on their social media page.