BRAND NEW: Advice on home analysis

[Jessica Cooper]

Hi everyone, I am absolutely brand new to this whole idea and have become quite interested in the possibilities.  I have created a spreadsheet trying to capture the points that Brandon Turner describes in his book as being analytical points to quickly screen properties as potential deals just based on what you can get from seeing the home on listing sites.  I would love some advice on this spreadsheet to see if there is anything I'm missing or anything that should be tweaked to get a more accurate estimate on cost/expenses of a potential property.  I'm having a hard time finding a general estimate for closing costs if considering selling the home in 5 years so that area is a little skinny.

I would also love advice on two homes I have come across recently that piqued my interest.  Again, maybe a lot to ask for, but that's what this forum is for, right?  Just trying to hone my eye and numbers so that I can truly feel confident when I decide to actually go for that first investment property. I also realize there is only so much you can assess about a property without seeing it in person that are key factors in whether it's a good property or not.  Things like schools, neighborhood, market sentiment in the area, and general feel of a neighborhood (not to mention inspection results).  Any advice (of any kind) would be truly appreciated!

I would also be more than happy to send my spreadsheet file for a more thorough look over.  I was just unable to upload it to the forum.