-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

My wife and I have overhauled our personal budget to reflect the 'pay yourself first' approach (allocate in order: income comes in -> invest -> donate -> fixed expenses -> variable expenses -> fun $$).We are looking to see what experienced people generally recommend for a holding tank for that 'invest' allocation while we target our first real estate deal.What financial vehicles have you guys used that works well for this?

This process is done immediately if there is an asset they can show....the wrap note that is an asset.One of my coaching clients is selling his personal residence like this after he gets done with his forensic loan audit so that he can downsize.

I'm not sure about the potential for liability in a wrongful death suit if somebody is injured or killed in the fire, but definitely would not want to find out personally, nor would I want to live with that on my conscience.  

Insurance liability, I personally know 2 families that lost their children in home pools.

With regard to renovations, I always suggest taking incremental steps to bigger renovations or partnering with someone who has already done a renovation at that level.I've been known to just go for the big rehabs for my personal investments here in Chicago , and during that process, it's always more stressful than it needs to be...As far as navigating the competition, I've found the best thing I can do is get EXTREMELY CLEAR  on what I am looking for; then I am confident pulling the trigger quicky. 

@Tanner Davis If you want to pursue either a fix/flip or BRRRR strategy, it sounds like you might need to find a partner/investor that knows you well and believes enough in you as a person to invest money in a project. 

My lease has a sublet fee (2 weeks is guest by lease more than 2 weeks in a year is sublet) that is costly enough ($100/night per person which is about what a cheaper hotel is here) that makes sure tenants do not have others move-in without informing us.

@Alvin Sylvain I agree the emotional support animals are B.S. but they are legal and we have to abide by the law.If the animal is an ESA, you are allowed to ask if the person is disabled and what service the animal provides.

I have my credit where it needs to be have a down payment saved of around 17k and looking into Host financial to go through for my first deal I am wondering has anyone personally used it and how do you like the company and the process thank you and looking forward to the journey