Juliah, good question, tools can make a big difference, but only if they actually make your workflow simpler instead of adding noise.Here’s what’s been working well for us across multiple markets:1.

What calculators, spreadsheets, or free tools have helped you analyze deals effectively?

I am seeking good ROI analysis tools (spreadsheets, calculators) for evaluating multi-family live-in unit (3 or 4 units) that I am planning on purchasing in Orange County or the Inland Empire in Southern California, over the next few months. 

I'm self managing and therefore need an online rent collection portal.

I think a lot of newer investors underestimate how different these two tools feel once you’re actually inside a capital stack.Here’s the way I usually explain it to operators:Mezzanine = Debt with a seatbeltIt’s basically a second-position loan pretending to be equity.You’re paying a stated interest rate, payments are expected, and if you miss them, the lender can enforce remedies.

It is going to be incredible after Stargate comes online.

Property managers with < 20 units:    What do you use today for notices / violations / compliance?Is it working for you? What are the gaps?Thanks!Jason

We’ve been using Rentec direct for over five years and it is hands-down, my favorite landlord tool. hope it helps!

Quote from @Keith Meyer: Hi All,I'm looking to see if anyone knows of a calculator/modeling tool which can help me compare the benefits of selling a property with these four options:Sell and pay capital gains/depreciation recapture upfrontPerform 1031 exchange into new property, defer taxesSell on Seller Carryback Installment Sale, defer taxesSell on Monetized Installment Sale, defer taxesSurprisingly I couldn't find anything online which was very helpful.

I'd recommend Appfolio since you're managing more than 50 doors (their minimum criteria). 100% of the PMs I've worked with for my own rentals have used Appfolio, and it's always produced great owner reports.For overall bookkeeping/accounting needs, I always recommend QuickBooks Online since my bookkeeping firm uses it exclusively for our clients who are all REIs.But, for a PM company for the trust accounting, I usually recommend Appfolio.Hope that helps!