After literally years of looking (since 2022) I bought my first property a few months ago, so I feel extremely qualified to give advice (many people earned lots of equity during the pandemic appreciation-boom if they bought before 2022, but out-of-state investors getting started AFTER the 2022 interest rate hikes are few and far between). 

You can reduce size, if you go deeper, but that only works if you have steep sites or are willing to add a pump system to the outlet. 

For example, an agent would collect a reduced commission, flat transaction fee, or no commission if the buyer sources an off-market deal directly.In your case, if you'd like to compensate your agent, you can include it in the loan.

If you are working with a reputable company, then you buy the property, hold the property and look up 7-10 years down the road and have a home that has increased in value and a debt that has been reduced by your renter.   

The plan aims to reduce living costs, gain landlord experience, and move closer to long-term financial goals.Good luck!

And just having thought it out before greatly reduces potential of later hostilities "if". 

It just means as a Banker I see the banks money as the way to get rich and save your hard earned money for retirement.If you use your money and fail you are broke, if you use the banks money and fail you sell or find a way to transfer the debt.

Price/Earning ratios make it not worth investing.

As Pari said, you can learn notes and earn more than that, or if you want mailbox money and do no work, JV with a note investor and you can get 12%+ and your money is not tied up for years but on average 12-18 months (or less) depending on the deal. 

Here’s what I recommend:Cash Investments:No Debt, No Stress: With cash, you avoid third-party control and loan vetting, giving you full control of returns.Equity Builders: Partnering with builders often reduces your property entry cost by up to 20% below market value.Consistent 10% Returns: With an all-cash approach, achieving 10% ROI is realistic and efficient.Financing Strategy:If cash isn’t feasible, consider a balanced financing model:40-50% Down Payment: Keep leverage manageable while maximizing returns.Lower Debt Exposure: A conservative loan-to-value ratio (LTV) reduces risks and keeps returns stable.Work with a Builder: Collaboration with builders can lower acquisition costs and increase your ROI.Key Takeaways:If possible, prioritize cash for simplicity, control, and consistent returns.Financing can work well with a disciplined approach to debt and a strong underwriting process.Partnering with builders offers opportunities to reduce costs and enhance your portfolio’s profitability.