Inspections may cost more upfront, but they can save you from significant headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.Negotiate Hard: Use inspection findings as leverage.If the HVAC is near the end of its life, negotiate a credit for its replacement.If the cast iron plumbing is deteriorating and needs replacement, ask for a credit as well.Sellers often prefer negotiating credits over doing the work themselves.To give you an example: I was once under contract for an old house priced at $170,000.

I am all for taking risks in life, but we also have a 1 year old son now and I don't want to jeopardize the life we've built so far.

You have a full plan that, over time, results in a better way of life and more time with family.

Balance what you are learning through KW on how to be an agent and in the real estate class (much better basis for investors in real life than agents) with going to real estate investor meetups in your area.

If you're 25 or 35 and that monthly rent check gives you an extra vacation a year for the rest of your life, that might be fun too.Good luck and congratulations for being in the path of progress I guess.

However, I'm now reading Dave Meyer's book Start With Strategy to learn more about whether long-term residential rentals is even the best approach or if I should be looking into other strategies, in light of my overall goal.After Start With Strategy I plan to read Set For Life by Scott Trench, but what other recommendations do you guys have at the strategic level?

Add a very diversified economy here with banking, insurance, oil and gas, education, three medical schools, 3 law schools, life sciences, DFW airport, and so much more, it looks like the growth just goes on and on.As far as appreciation goes, that's always tough to predict. 

Now if you want to buy and live there forever or you want a specific location or lifestyle or the amenities, might be something to consider, but not for investment....they're for living.Your best option right now depending on your income, is probably to buy at least 4bed house or 5 bedroom if you can make it work financially and rent bedrooms. 

I've flipped homes and land several times in my life...but it was actually unintentional believe it or not. 

I’ve spent most of my life in California (SF/LA) and have been in Pittsburgh for only two years, so I’m still getting familiar with the area.Does anyone know of RE agents in Pittsburgh who specialize in STR investments?