I've learned a lot from them and the few other people I know, but have also learned some extra tricks here.By participating in the forums, I've personally found that I'm a pretty good landlord and it's allowed me to help other people on the site.

Craig,Solo 401k can be very powerful vehicle, not only as tax shelter (it allows for very large contributions comparing to an IRA), but also it can be self-directed giving you the ability to invest in assets classes of your choice such as real estate, private lending and more.Among the benefits it offers is the ability to contribute post tax (Roth), borrow from it by using participant loan and much more.

@Matthew Schwenke, you can not use your situation fund one of those here is the eligibility requirements:Self-employed individuals and owner-only businesses and partnerships are eligible.Owners’ spouses may also participate.

you don't participate in any of the community governance.  

We rent initially at market rate and offer renewals to great tenants at a growth rate slightly less than market.Our properties are in active markets in the Dallas area where rents have been going up 5-7% a year, we aren't in small town rural Washington :)I suppose in a down market we would increase the rent a token amount, but we would always raise it.If we got into a market where it was difficult to find replacement tenants, I think we would focus on offering an enhancement to the property as we did an increase. 

We've participated in many different facets of real estate throughout my life. 

Not them specifically but here is an article on "How to properly stage a home", look at this blog article on "How a garden enhances your backyard" etc.

Anyone have any recommendations for conferences or training sessions they have participated in?

A 35% equity position plus a finder's fee plus everything over a 16% COC goes into your pocket seems excessive.Disclaimer; I've never participated in a syndication.

@Cory, to me the best way is to participate in the meet ups.