Did the value of my home go up or down?

The greatest teacher will always be experience.

Yes I agree with Sofia as someone who has done delayed financing I agree because 80% ltv  is what we are used to dealing with when it comes to lenders.

Is the closet on an exterior wall where it's cooler than the rest of the house?

Be prepared to come in with additional cash to close due the the appraisal.   

@Kyle DeboerGet a job and save up till you can buy the first one.

*Day 3: I come back to start unpacking.

You can convert to a third rental down the road if that day ever comes.

Live in the primary.

It goes to your preference, of course, but whichever can produce the greatest ROI should be considered.There are many markets in Michigan, for example, where it is cheaper to buy an existing house and fix it up than it is to build new.That may not be the case where you are at or through the construction suppliers and contractors you may have access to.To Your Success!