@Graeme WilliamsYou have very valid concerns and shared with the vast majority of those contemplating investing in real estate.

You've contemplated realistic returns?  

I really contemplated my own sanity for a few years!

These would only apply for 2017, though, since it seems that you're contemplating making it a rental from here on out.  

I have contemplated just hammering down my mortgage with principal payments for the next 3 years and my off my loan, but am getting tired of waiting on the sidelines.

But an in depth what is discussion about a property one is only contemplating buying is an extremely unprofitable use of a lender’s time.Approaching a lender with this “don’t steal my deal, sign an agreement before I tell you about it” approach shouts out inexperienced, clueless, no money, never close “investor”.

You should engage a CPA familiar with international taxation, especially since you seem to live abroad and are contemplating investing in foreign companies.Generally yes, a foreign corporation that holds and rents real property would be a PFIC...however a controlled foreign corporation (CFC) is statutorily excluded from being a PFIC and is subject to a different set of rules.

Sounds like you know that exact areas I'm contemplating, and your an inspector too. : ) thank you for your comment.

Hi All!Looking for financial and "is this property a good deal??" advice on my first forray into real estate investment.Financials: The plan is to work with a relative to get a HELOC on a primary residence in the Bay ...

I am not a huge fan of his work which is why I'm contemplating looking into doing business with another lender, however I don't know if this is a waste of my time if it all ends up going thru the same underwriting process that will just give me the same results