It is encouraging...

I have learned about BiggerPockets from Steve Rozenberg in the past, but my good friend Jenni Utz has recently encouraged me to join this forum.

In any event, only a NY licensed lawyer can advise you, but I encourage you to kick the tires on this claim.   

@Matt Lopez Thank you for the encouragement!

It is definitely encouraging to see some great individuals in my area already.

They want landlords to continue to cover the bill for their tenants, not have an issue for non-payment, but then provide no meaningful statements about how they plan to aid the landlord.I am just a small guy in this business and I already have $15,000+ in non-payment with many of these individuals who will most likely never have the capacity to pay their debts back.

It involves learning how to price a home, and "encouraging" the seller to price their home at a price that is respective of its condition, etc.  

I would encourage you to not wait for a downturn to start your acquisition of rentals.  

The best groups will encourage education and networking, but there are some that are being run almost solely for the benefit of the founder(s), so beware of any group whose main function is to sell you into a mentorship program offered by the owner (or their friends/partners).

I would encourage you to pursue the house hack.