The rhetorical question is hyperbole, but it illustrates the point.Look to hours spent running and operating the real property trade or business.Something like continuing education hours required by real estate agents to maintain their license with the state would count.Hours spent by investors reading books, online articles, blog posts, not so much...

For those of you that are unfamiliar with the term Interior Designer, that term contrasts with the term Interior Decorator in that a real designer has a formal education in the field.

I can’t wait to convert from educational mode to action mode. 

It is a little scary at first and the more I can educate and arm myself, I think it's possible.   

These associations are incredibly valuable for education, advice, access to legal forms,  screening services, networking,  etc.If there is not already a tenant in place, be sure you understand how to properly and legally screen.   

I'm a total newbie still in the education stage of this journey, so please bear with me.Thanks in advance for your response. 

With that information, you can anticipate your tenant more, and as James noted, educate him on what warrants reaching out to you.

To circumvent the challenge, I have decided to focus on educating myself as much as possible while on the road and getting my finances together.

Get as educated as you possibly can.

@Shri KanaseCongrats on the move to life education, its a very good tool to start sharpening now.