Real estate agents can be a source of referrals, but I want to speak to an investor who has actually borrowed money from them.If you get private lender referrals from local investors, verify that they have recently lent on local properties and avoid paying large up-front fees, I think you will filter out most scammers and unprofessional lenders.

Avoid dangerous activities: let one tenant mow the lawn on a multi (multifamily)8.)

What mistakes did you make on your first house hack that I should avoid?

A clean, functioning curtain setup is fine for habitability and avoids any more risk.3.

I’m considering offering $500 cash-for-keys to get them out quickly and avoid further losses. 

Now the rules have changed where that only applies if your lender underwrites it as a full condo review, you can avoid this by putting 25% down.

Versus how much would you have paid to a professionally property manager who might have avoided this situation altogether?

Some people look for expertise, others expect you to be just a "go'fer".You will find you can't be everything to everybody, nor should you.Like attracts like, so figure out the target market you want to work with and focus on attracting them and avoiding the rest.

I want to set things up correctly from both a liability protection and tax-efficiency standpoint but I’m not sure what the smartest approach is.I want to make sure I’m protected personally, while not overcomplicating things or eating up profits with unnecessary entity costs.If anyone has been through a similar situation—owning properties in more than one state—and can share what structure worked well (or what to avoid), I’d really appreciate the insights.Thanks in advance!

Any repairs they ask for would keep your property top notch too.Goes without saying to avoid rent hikes if you're trying to retain.