Hello everyone...Was just wonder if I'm still thinking like a civilian home owner instead of an investor, but when I see a listing saying selling "as is"...Alarm bells ring...Am I wrong to think that way as an investor?

Also considering the nearby cities for both tourism and inhabitants which will influence your occupancy. 

I could see them condemning the house and forcing a demolition if it was inhabitable and a danger to others.I know that doesn't really answer your question but I hope that helps.

Then you can sell one or two for a big check to help with your transition to civilian life and possibly fund new REI deals. 

Hello everyone, I am US veteran and new into the civilian world again.

That is a cool way to get a low rate, but it ties up the entitlement slot for the seller if you (buyer) are a civilian.  

My husband retires from the Marine Corps in 5 years so we'd like to start now in hopes that it will help ease the transition from an active duty family to civilian family.We are very new to this and of course have many questions on taking the first step on getting started.

Does the house need the rehab to remain inhabitable?

Complete remodel of every room while inhabiting the home.

While he was capable of buying the investment, which in itself was very fraudulent since it was inhabitable but he was able to get a Primary Mortgage without a Construction Loan, he couldn't come up with the money to finish the project and it went into foreclosure.Aside from him, 100% of my advanced students have all become successful.