The “hot tub show” models will work, but you will do more work on them in the end.  

I am about ready to just manage myself from out of state and have a couple of local handymen help me out when things come up.

Of course your other debts including student loans go into the mix to come up with your total debt to income but the income needed  is a lot smaller then a lot of borrowers in your situation tend to  think.  

Prices have increased (higher terms/rates) as the fed rate has gone up so you have seen people who could get 8 or 9% now in double digits.

The industry continues to see consolidation, with private equity-backed firms actively acquiring, albeit at a slightly slower pace than the frenzy a few years back.

I'm currently trying to build my list of interview questions that I would/could use when it comes to screening and finding the right Real Estate Agent.

The reality is you have to pay for services like this and be prepared to eat the cost if the deal doesn't pan out.

Just wondering can you ever catch a great deal on the market  and if so what’s stopping you from taking advantage?

In addition to the interest of the loan, you'd also be paying this as well. 

@John Underwood thank - I replied on platform and no more follow up from the inquirer