So here is my question for you: have you ever lived in a city that provides good opportunities, that you already know, maybe have family there, maybe visit on a regular basis.

Very few contractors actually knew this, so quite a few claimed the FEIE and then got burned when audited.New law does away with 'no US abode' requirement to be eligible to claim FEIE for contractors serving in a combat zone.

I have a regular job that pays decently, so I don't take money out of my RE business.  

Look for the local Skagit County and Anacortes group here in BP, as I understand they meet regularly. 

Regular Jack and Jill homeowner on the MLS that needs the money to buy their next McMansion? 

If only have to clean every 3-6, a lot easier, since we would be changing regular filters every 3 months anyway. 

Instead of hiring a property management company, I would prefer to work with a trustworthy individual that can also do regular maintenance and repairs. 

As far as I'm aware, I have to pay regular  income tax on the $ 500k.

My lease states that written permission needs to be given, so there is no "he said, she said" in small claims court.3)  That's going to be another tough row to hoe unless you have a sales receipt. 

Listening to that podcast regularly will give you a great grasp of what multi family investors around the country are experiencing.