He's even been willing to visit properties with me when they're nearby. and we discuss properties.

You don't have to necessarily relocate (although I do recommend the occasional visit) but you do have to build a team of experts that you trust.

Glad you visited.  

And, yes, insurance appears on IRS Form Schedule E:I, of course, and not a tax professional, and am not up to speed about what might be unique to your particular situation that prevents being able to write these things off.But you might want to consider hiring a better tax guy, if you're being told that you "can't ever" write off property taxes!

what are some unique was you started out in real estate investing with little money.... please share

I am 800 miles away so couldn't visit it in person. 

Your info on the Donelson duplex, I have to ask; did you visit it or have a partner in town with eyes on the ground.  

Give them a call or go visit their website.

Joe Fairless has quickly scaled to $100M+ in assets under management and has utilized unique methods to establish credibility and raise several millions from investors for his apartment syndications.  

I used to cry when my mom talks about a dental visit.