But at some point I do find that next niche that works for me and I like and go into that full steam. 

So I saved you 5k and read my post above on why short-term rentals are a far better investment without the headaches of going to court to recoup damages or fight claims of being a slumlord (which by all accounts he is) 

Or did they crash into a zoo full of endangered species?

For full time management rates can range from 20-30% of gross revenue depending on the level of services provided.

That could be a PM or you can hire a person to work full time for you. 

Each jurisdiction is different, but typically include a substantial deposit due same day up to full price deposited that day. 

The real estate community is full of experienced investors happy to share their knowledge.

Don’t fill your purchase agreement with the seller full of “Weasel Clauses.”

Leveraging seller financing creatively, with strategies like stepdown interest rates or unique amortization schedules, could be the key to bridging the gap until the property reaches its full income potential.

For a full service data provider, you could check out OPENHOUSEit