I've read many of the BiggerPockets books like - House Hacking- Flipping- Estimating Rehabs- Multifamily Millionaire Book I and II- How to Invest in Real Estate with Low or No Money Down- Investing from a Distanceand even some outside of themand have been wanting to do something in Real Estate for awhile.

Starting with a trailer is a smart, low-cost option.

Hey @Brett RiemensniderThere are a TON of banks/credit unions that will offer as low as Prime on a heloc on your primary residence.

If the Transunion report verifies everything, and they meet my other criteria (credit scores, proof of income, background and eviction checks...) then we are good.In my 15+ years at this, I have found a very strong correlation of credit score and tenant quality.

If you are going to be an owner-occupant, want a low down payment, and are planning to do a renovation, the FHA 203k and Fannie May Homestyle loans are your best optionsHow do you know the property is currently upside down on the mortgage? 

Set up a contracts account at both Lowes and HD. 

The license doesn't cost more, the service and quality does.And a note on that cost, in my experience hiring contractors, only a small percentage of the cost savings was due to finding the right guy who is willing to work for less.

It depends on your financial strength, the quality of the property, how many properties you own, etc.I like to start with one significant expense and three months of vacancy.

There are other loan products available that are still a low down payment. 

Everybody thinks they can paint because they can - you get a brush or a roller, a can of paint at Lowe's and away you go.