We are, conservatively, about 10 years from retirement age.

As I continue my W-2, I'm continually reminded of my goal to be financially free by age 45 (just over 7 years from now) and I'm more motivated to reach that goal so I can go into RE investing full time.

Second, general maintenance and repair costs depend on the condition of the house, the age of the house, and who is hired to do the work.  

I am also your age and getting in the game at this age is going to be awesome for your future.

I bought my first place when I was your age and it was to live in while I went to grad school and I rented out the other room in the condo.Talk to your bank and find out what is happening because what you said doesn't make sense for a regular mortgage. 

Sounds like you already know this, but I see it with new investors here in Colorado, coming in all hot, excited to retire by age 40 and then are crippled by that first step. 

A small number use the hot press process that is distinctly superior in my opinion in overall strength in dimensional structure and durability.Your chart does note finish which is an excellent point as it's the finish and not the wearlayer that gives a product it's scratch resistance( AO and Ceramic Bead being one of the best but it also depends on how many coats are put on which many makers do not detail).

@Brooklyn HuntIt's fantastic that you're exploring opportunities in both the investment industry and real estate at such a young age.

(zoning, flood risk, insurance, roof age etc)  I also call the listing agent to gather the age of most important things if it is not listed. 

In the internet ages its easy to get black listed as an Investor..