What kind of returns were you experiencing with RealtyShares?

You can also check with local experienced investors and agents who work primarily with investors.

They are experiencing major development including breweries, trendy restaurants, and building the new soccer stadium.

I've experienced this as well. 

I've seen it where experienced  investors have fell victim to miscalculation on rehabbing properties. 

If you want a true passive investment that makes 6-10% I'd suggest looking at investing your money with a syndicator or other experienced investor who knows what they're doing.

Hello everyone!I am 31 years old, currently in grad school with a family of 4 (including myself), and currently rent. I have 1 more year until i'm on my way to start my "so-called" career in what I truly do have a pas...

(it's not worth depreciating a $35 table, anyway)  Your actual issue is that if you were to be audited, you will not have receipts for things like your Craigslist purchases.Find a CPA who is experienced with real estate for sure.  

But comes pros and cons of it and comes pros and cons of being experienced and set in your ways.Good luck buddy.

Once you have the land you can find a General Contractor that specializes in ground up single family in your area and get an all inclusive price from them - alternatively you can hire an architect and engineers to develop drawings then bid it out to GCs.