Although if the negative interest rates don't keep the economy from deleveraging employment rates might go up substantially even with these crazy labor force participation numbers.  

I am fortunate that duplexes, specifically "shotgun doubles", are a very common architectural style in my city. 

The part of the contract that threw me off was this:"Owner hereby employs  XYZ PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (name changed for propriety's sake), as his exclusive agent for the rental and management of Property.  

If you are self-employed, then there is even a better option available: truly self-directed Solo 401k, which does not require a custodian and nor the LLC to get the checkbook control.

@Kusmayadi Djunaidi  not common for PM to hold your reserves.. at least in SFR small value assets maybe for big multi million dollar commercial deals.

@Elena Jobson  from what you describe... anyone telling you to get a lawyer is very poor advice the money you would spend on a lawyer would be more than to fix a few plumbing leaks and a dishwasher that probably just needs the plug taken out of it.hot markets are like this.. in many markets you only get an inspection for your benefit the seller does no repairs its that hot.if you really think you have a bone to pick this is what small claims is for. along with checking on the permits.. if this is a licensed contractor he may have a bond and any contractor does not want a complaint filed. these things happen we build brand new homes and there is always a punch list. and such.. its just common.

Sometimes people have a sad story (I'm sure at time some are true and some are not) but unless they have a proven good credit rating and good employment, they will not rent a house from me.  

There are usually multiple offers and bidding wars are common.

If you got in with only 20% you would actually being doing really well. 25-40% is more common.

I also do consulting.I help owners of real estate with creative real estate solutions that solve common, but complex, real estate problems.