I would like to emphasize that you should not invest for tax benefits alone, you should be investing in things that you like and understand before anything else.

I went to college, not that it is mandatory, and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.  

I did graduate from college with honors and it emphasized real estate. 

I emphasize virtually because I don't think the difference is very large (in respect to hundreds of thousands being saved) between accumulating then pay a bigger lump sum vs periodic extra payments.

All of the fees alone add to about $1000-$1200/year for me.It's important to emphasize that when you are joining a brokerage, you are interviewing them, and not the other way around.

Good lighting, cameras, signs emphasizing the presence of cameras, gated entry.....all good ideas.

I'll emphasize what @Tom Goans says here, at least for CO.

My advice would be to politely but firmly communicate your need to have your contractor inspect the property, and emphasize that this is a standard practice for you.

If you read my previous post, I emphasized the importance of showing up for the right keywords.

The vast majority of the country in-between the coasts is still very reasonable and sane.Again, I would like to emphasize that it is VERY DIFFICULT to make money with rentals long distance.Good Luck,