With builders offering in-house financing as low as 5.5% for investors/second home owners, and warranties on roofs and HVAC systems, I continue to support new construction as a solid choice for LTR buyers.

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

When starting out if real estate, you pretty much have no choice but to either join a team or join a large brokerage that offers hands on training.

You need to know the difference and how to find deals before you start anything.I recommend you start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Vinyl plank flooring is a great choice when you are on a budget and want the look of real hardwood.

House hacking is an awesome choice for starting out—it’s a great way to cover your mortgage while gaining landlord experience.

In fact, you’d have no choice but to claim material participation because that is exactly how the regulations read and require. 

With strong demand and guaranteed, government-backed rent, Columbus is an excellent choice for investors seeking reliable cash flow.

Most tax preparers include in their engagement letter that you have ultimate responsibility to what is reported on the return.

A final choice would be to rent the primary in a few months, reside in a rental for several years, sell the primary, and purchase another SFH for rental and a SFH residence as a new primary.Is this a viable place to begin investing?