You will need to supplement your tennat $2500 rent out of pocket to cover the expenses on this property. 

You eloquently described what I was aiming for - intellectual liberation, development of social and intellectual capital and ability to critically think (in some cases). 

After a few years, you can refinance to pull out cash or get a supplemental loan (if available).

I've also been looking at Slice.is (yes not a .com but a .is) for supplemental coverage. 

I would underwrite on 30% down, but aim to get it at 25% max. 

My Realtor suggested that we look at obtaining insurance first, and then aim for the mortgage.  

I am going to supplement the wood floor in a few spots with vinyl glue down planks.

I'm not looking to get rich quick, just to build a real estate portfolio to supplement my military income so I can retire at a young age.

I believe in going after impossible goals because like Michelangelo said: the great danger for most of us is not that we aim too high and we miss it, it’s that we aim too low and we reach it.

If my local network is strong, and I build a reputation of respect and kindness, that's what I'm aiming for.