I think the key is quite simple: always make sure that you are adding value in excess of your fees and your fees are in excess of your costs.

LOL and excessive acronyms scare me a ton.  

Moving when renting is trivial, nothing to sell, just give notice and go. 4) Many people think they can't afford a house, so they never try. 5) Some people really can't afford a house, so they rent. 6) Short Term / Temporary Work Assignments7) Irresponsible with money8) Really poor credit or excessive collectionsLots more I'm sure, but it's too late to think too hard.

We are partnering with a friend for this venture and will work to bring the necessary money to the table (we don't have an excess of savings). 

I self-manage some of the easy ones and most were rehabbed within the last 5 years, so repairs are not excessive. 

@Andy Rousch Branson is like old-people Vegas in the Midwest...except instead of gambling they have an excess of theatres, and amusement parks hahaha.

Its about $2100 in excess, and if they stay the course for one or two more years it’ll grow.

After working on a flip locally, I know I spend excess money on repairs on my 'long distance' property.

The increase in rent doesn't justify the excess debt you are taking on.Why do the repairs at all if it's already rented out and cash flowing?

Yes, 10% EM is excessive in this case, and whatever EM goes to a title co.