do i have enough cash flow?

[Nam Nguyen]

Hi,

Just signed up yesterday, and the amount of information available has been a bit overwhelming.  As I read the various articles and hone in on what I REALLY want to do I'm hoping I can get some advice.  My goal is to someday have enough properties to donate to charities that help Sexual Assault Victims, especially at colleges.  If any of you follow college football then you probably know about the Baylor situation with Art Briles.

The low down: 

Purchased a Fort Walton Beach, FL townhome in 2011 via short-sale when I was stationed at Eglin AFB ($64,000 @ 4%). I used my VA loan to buy it with no money down and it was my primary residence for 1-year due to my overseas relocation in 2012. It has been renting out since then at $900.

After property management fees, mortgage and escrow payments I bring home about $200 per month.  How do I know if I'm making the most out of my property?  I'm confused with the term "cash flow" and a part of me thinks there is a strategy (or two!) out there that will help me better utilize the townhome for profit.  I have some cash saved up to pay for the mortgage completely (about $40k) but I've read on this forum that paying off a mortgage isn't the best move.  

Thanks!