This of course depends on your starting bank roll - but if its like mine (under 100k) - Im trying to put as little as possible into it on top of initial equity and fees.this will likely chew a big hole in your ROI  (now if you are looking to improve value with a cash out refi or a great prospect comes along that needs combo new plumbing, roof, windows, foundation repair, etc - well just make sure you know what youre getting into and/or have a good contractor and finger on the pulse of the market when estimating the ARV YOURSELF - couple missed items and you risk having a bad first investment and not doing it again).    7) dont be scared be ambitious ( i should heed my own advice sometimes) 8) define numbers goals within your target areas.  

I always research companies first before doing business, but that comes from my training and working on security issues, especially after having my sites hacked. 

Recommended resources include books, podcasts, websites, forums, and online courses.

Knowing what i know today, I always encourage new investors to do their first investments with professional guidance if you can find it -not so much the guru courses, but a personal approach from a genuinely experienced investor in the market you are entering.

@Mindy Rosscup Hi Mindy, while I think there could be an advantage to being a real estate agent I took a different course of action.

Cleveland of course, Has been the # 1 rental market in America for many years, always in the top 3.

And of course the GFC cratered many RE investors many marriages ended because of it and well even worse things happened to some folks .  

Definitely curious about your approach to this   Of course!

It generally is by area plus of course your location.

This is my first property so of course it's harder to keep my head in the game with %100 vacancy.