Compare/Contrast: REI vs. Traditional Business Ventures

[Ben Day]

A little background: I operate a bookkeeping firm specifically targeting RE investors in Oklahoma. My goal is to apply my experience as an accountant to the benefit of my community, gain some knowledge about investing, make some connections, and accrue capital to put toward my first investment. 

I'm wondering what the BP community thinks about RE accounting. What are the major differences between long term rentals and a more "traditional" goods/services business? When I get approached by businesses that aren't in RE, I would like to be able to speak concisely and not lose that potential business because I'm not "in their field." Any and all thoughts welcome.