We have seen maintenance costs skyrocket over the past 2-3 years and every case is different but here are some general guidelines for reputable (non-crackhead) investor level pricing in our area of operations:Furnace and A/C replacement with lineset for standard 3 bed 1 bath bungalow.

The cheap houses are tempting; however, if we're on the other side of the greatest run up in home price appreciation in my lifetime, and a property can still be had for under $100k, the appreciation upside is going to be very limited. 

It's a low barrier to entry and a good option for you, I would highly and I mean highly recommend you focus on location.

Placing a deal under contract in Henderson and a few fix and flips .

This requires doing math, patience and a learning curve.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

From one cow versus 100 cows trimmings, and a $1pound cheaper. 

Also, if a few hundred dollars in draw fees will make your deal go sideways, it may not be the best deal for you, especially as you are just getting started.I'm happy to share my experience as an investor and a mortgage broker.

Still have a lot to learn and a lot to ask before I'll be ready to start though. 

Down payments on DSCR purchases can be as low as 15% right now, and as you noted, they don’t impact your DTI.