First Real Estate Investment questions

[John Paul]

Hi,

I'm completely new to this REI. I regret not investing in 2012 when prices were rock bottom. Anyhow planning to do my first REI so we can rent it. Our current primary home is already paid off.

Questions:

1) If we have the cash to invest and buy 100% of the property without having to take loans or financing. Is this a best option for the first REI ?

2) Is location always the key to buy the first REI property ?

3) Would you buy RE in a location where schools are good so it's easy to rent it ?   Or would you buy in downtown where location is key ?

4) Are there any tools or calculator which will tell me how much would I get in ROI when doing REI ?

5) As a first REI, how much amount would you suggest investing ?

Any other suggestions are welcome.   Thanks in advance