After all that some get the AHA moment that this business is not easy while others still think that its picking an apple from a tree. 

If you had good credit (670-730 range), you have 20% to make a down payment, and sufficient income to qualify for the home you want to purchase - Would you choose the FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER or CONVENTIONAL purchase option...which would you pick and WHY?

But recently, I’ve been curious to pick people’s minds and explore how others approach these aspects, especially as we grow our portfolio.You’re spot on about how technology can be a tool but shouldn’t replace the real human insights that come from having boots on the ground and networking.

All Landlords risk tenants damaging the home, but a NICE home attracts NICE tenants so the fact that you've made the home very NICE means you should be able to take your pick of applicants.

In states like Indiana, Ohio, Texas, Florida, Tenn, Georgia and a few others you do not have to pick appreciation or cash flow.

Will put fertilizer and Rice Hulls in the pond to start the Algae to growing. 

I also like contractors that have packets that allow you to pick out the stuff that you want to use for that project, which reduces the quality control process..

If you can’t make it work in your market I would pick one and go deep into it.

I would encourage you to read this beginners guide from BiggerPockets, it's a good bit of information so pick and choose what you want to read or read it all.

I picked up a home for $422k that does $8k+month in revenue, some months well over.