There's lots of resources here, and lots of very smart people.I'm assuming you are a Certified Financial Planner (some strange characters came through, so I might be wrong).

You will meet some seasoned people at the REIA, but mostly newbs, a lot of great people, but always a few shady characters who try to "make deals" or "raise money".

I attribute that to the personal letter I wrote with a picture of my family stating how we would make the property our home. 

@Steve Babiak Thanks I had some idea there were panels and drop ceiling stuff we could install but it would likely  destroy the character of the apartment and I doubt the downstairs tenant would want it even if I offered to do it. 

Credit refers to your character and debt payment practices.

This is the I believe what John was trying to convey to you and you probably have not thought through the what if's for the seller.From What Wayne Brooks has mentioned a Sub too default in Florida can be a feloney and I think all states should have that law.. there is far to many newbie rookies etc that get into this and totally foul up the poor seller.. this is not only about you the investor trying to leverage into a deal its about a seller being able to sleep at night knowing who they deeded their home too has the credit capacity and character to follow through...

It has a lot of character!

The utilities, taxes, insurance, repairs, etc. attributable to the rental portion can be deducted against the rental income.

Since they are ultimately the person that knows their character, and knows their past behavior that is the best person that you can ask because they have no reason to tell you something that is not true.  

Some of those areas buyers like to have the character of the old houses, pay high prices and leave the homes as is to live in or rent as vacation rentals.