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?

While it was a scary jump at first, we quickly realized this space is actually less competitive.

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. 

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

@David To In Texas there is a way of using tenant personal property to pay past rent.

I say "may" because while I have read about this in several places, I have not personally verified this to be true.I usually pay contractors by check the minute the work is finished and approved.  

After looking at your post, I realized it's probably necessary to have a dedicated real estate attorney handle this issue for me since it's serious and I might make a mistake big enough that probably will cost me too much money to fix.

There is realized gains & profits, and UN-realized gains and profits.

Even I can do it, and I am generally the most unhandy person on the planet!  

If one project slows down, others can keep moving.Stagger Projects: Start planning your next project while finishing the current one to keep your pipeline full.DSCR Loans: These loans focus on the property’s income, not your personal income, which can help you finance more properties.StrategyFlip and Hold: Flipping one property while prepping another for rental keeps cash flowing and builds your portfolio.BRRRR Timing: Since BRRRR is slower now, using DSCR loans to get multiple properties might be a good hedge.Good luck with your flip and future investments!