I think first few years minimal but we can't assume divorce, health, employment, external factors that force a sale.

Get the W-2, check the employer ID number with the state, look for even numbers (a  give away of fraud), go to IRS tax table and see if the tax taken percentage taken is correct, FICA, 401k, health care fund on the payroll check??? 

Some people DO need to get rid of their house fast NOT for monetary gain but illness, stress, health what ever and the amount of money they will get is NOT the deciding factor.

But Zillow's stock price is certainly not a good indicator of the health of real estate investing.

A "day job" that provides income, health insurance, a 401k, etc. will be invaluable.

Our economy has a strong healthcare presence with Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and Metro Health all headquartered here.

We've found it VERY useful to provide our clients with an Annual Video Evaluation.You find all kinds of lease violations:1) Nonreported maintenance issues that could be health & safety related (could lead to tenant lawsuits) and property preservation problems (water leaks).2) Unreported pets.3) Additional people living in the home.4) Hoarders.5) Home-based businesses that lead to additional wear & tear and owner liabilities (their clients could slip & fall, then sue you).6) Home converted to grow operation.And many more.We also do these BEFORE lease renewals - why renewal the lease of someone trashing the property?

It takes a little time, but it allows you to get started if you don't have working capital.I've now turned half my properties into mid-term rentals for mostly traveling health care providers. 

My uncle is getting older and facing health issues.

After 25 years I thought my health insurance had gotten too expensive for me and my partner at $1400/month and started working a W-2 job thinking that would be ideal.