I can continually save up enough for another down payment through my W-2 income, but the time elapsed kind of drives me nuts. 

If you want to put it at 25%, I won't say you're nuts. 45%, though, is nuts.Not in general but for $800/month units, I believe it should be at least 45%.  

People, particularly amateurs just starting out, tend to focus too much on big tools.

Cash flow the first few years tends to not be strong but rent increases year over year are second to none in NJ. 

Over the years we've produced split tests that have shown that larger CTAs tend to convert better than smaller ones, Jerryll has stepped into this and really expanded the size of CTAs even more. 

One of the benefits of new builds is that they tend to attract tenants who are looking for a fresh start and a place to settle down, which can help reduce the kind of headaches you’re dealing with now.If you’re ever considering expanding your portfolio or want to explore other opportunities in Indy, feel free to reach out.

In these scenarios - does affordable housing tend to go with the actual market rent? 

My stone countertops have lasted longer than any of my laminate countertops as well, so I tend to stick with it.If you're worried about sealing the granite, I have that as a checklist item during turnover so I don't worry about having my tenants do it.

My neighbors thought I was nuts for giving that much.

Many investors tend to stay away from Garland and Mesquite because they have very strict renovation and rental inspection laws.