How many kids get to play minecraft or COD on a big projector screen right? 

Trying to weed people out at local REI meetings to be possible mentors is also gamble and a huge time suck.

Unless you really know Baltimore I consider buying there gambling , not investing .

You say the contractor is resubmitting the revisions but where is the architect and what role is he/she playing?

DSCR doesn't require the property is rented, but with the loan amount at play that would not be an option for everyone I've heard of. 

Your success is much more influenced by how well you play in a market, how good your team is, than by picking a marginal better market.

Decide which game you want to play.

Furthermore, this rule may be disregarded as investors become more creative.For instance, if investors intend to buy and make a long-term hold play, betting on appreciation, they may be able to afford to pay more.

I wouldn't bet on either at this stage but if you like a gamble...

You are just making profit from the yield play.