Here's what you need to know about qualifying and managing costs, including realtor fees and other expenses.Why Germany?

Some even offer preferred interest rates as low as 5.75% at no cost to you. 

Low cost, possibly yes, but also possibly very time consuming and that has a cost.  

I'm using a property management software (TurboTenant) for rental applications and screening reports, and they charge each prospective tenant $45 for this service.However, the Wisconsin State Legislature states that the landlord can only charge the actual cost of a credit report (up to $25).

The forms are online, and it costs $100 per filing. 

It's probably best to have them pay out of pocket for a smaller cost like this.

I would guess an older home might be more cost to insure?

Although I know most sec 8 landlords use it because of the perception of guaranteed rents.As a small home builder I really dont know how they are going to lower the cost of new construction housing unless the govmit subsidizes it somehow.. basically the price of home components are very sticky they only go up. with the xception of lumber that will go  up and down through out the year..

This also leaves me with $3,750 stuck in the deal (not including financing and closing costs, which could easily add another $20,000).In total, if I had to include closing costs and financing costs, I’d have about $23,000 (if not more) tied up in the deal and lose close to $700/month before accounting for expenses.

Also you should inquire with insurance agents about the cost to insure.