It wasn't until my corporate employer fired me that I was able to focus on the one thing I loved doing.Not that the transition was easy, either.Focus on fundamentals of real estate education.

This is a creative bunch, and I was certain someone here had some risky, sexy venture they employed for such. 

Having a degree in finance is definitely nice, that way if you need to look for employment, you have options. 

Examples: Did not realize $500 tax bill was important so did not mention; Found out they needed more proof of time in employment; No, 34 hours does not mean "Full Time"; Decided after a month of showing, they changed their minds and want to rent; Champaign taste with Beer budget, etc.

I have been involved with a successful residential contracting firm for 10 years now and i find myself on an employment plateau.

If your employer owns the properties you manage, then a license is not required. 

So, when you are considering a property, consider the major employers where your tenant pool is likely to work.

Additionally we employ the services of an after hours receptionist that will gather information and forward it to us if someone decides to give us a call at 3am.

Reminds me of when I got fired from my corporate employer many decades ago. 

You can't get a loan without two years of tax returns if self employed.