If I were in this situation I would want to continue charging full rent and pay the tenant for needed work independently of our rental agreement, then it's up to them what the money goes towards. 

-Network with people like crazy and get out of your comfort zone-Develop grit and keep your goal of financial independence in mind.

-Network with people like crazy and get out of your comfort zone-Develop grit and keep your goal of financial independence in mind.

Fresh college grad, goal is Financial Independence.

Although, see #3 above.This all said, you might look in the Independence-Raytown-Grandview-Belton areas.  

I just started listening to the Bigger Pockets Money Podcast and I am intrigued by this idea of financial independence!

There are so many small details that can impact your deal that you want independent eyes reviewing the details, prior to the bank vetting anything.Just like RE agents, you should look to work with a Mortgage broker who is also an active investor.Jason Lewis

His life plan to financial independence is to win the lottery (seriously). 

So as agents get to a mature business level they are all independent contractors they work for themselves.. they are not mandated to do anything but follow contract law and ethics .. and they don't have to work with those they choose not to..  

I think it is safer and less chance of audit and other factors.