Is it just me or is depreciation a hidden gem? By my calculations, between 401k, HSA, IRA and depreciation deductions for what will soon be 5 rentals, I will get 15K of my money back every year. Most of that benefit is from the rentals, with the 401k coming in second, the IRA third and the HSA fourth.
Of course some of that money has to get reinvested back in to keep the places looking nice, but still, I'm getting a ton of money back every year to do it with, just for a few minutes of tax planning.
The more I invest in real estate the more I'm convinced this is the way to go. Principal pay down, cash flow, appreciation, being able to "buy equity", tax benefits. Oh Real Estate, how I love thee.