Research emerging neighborhoods, find properties using MLS, Zillow, and Redfin, explore financing options, form partnerships, analyze deals using BRRRR calculators, and manage the rehab process.

But ultimately I’m not opposed to taking a calculated risk as long as I have a complete picture of the situation. 

BiggerPockets also has a calculator you can use to analyze deals and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

If I purchase ten houses, the risk are known and all risks are mine with all return is mine as well , even the unknown risk can be calculated; with syndication it's hope and pray.

Here's a bit more in detail about how rates are calculated for DSCR loans:1.

Calculating ROI (CoC, Flow, Appreciation, etc)Would love to know how, and how often people are looking at the numbers to determine when to refinance, sell, or just track performance. 

My realtor/PM says $0.95 to $1.05 per sq. ft. is a reasonable monthly rent for a 4 BR/2 BA property in that area, which (according to the BiggerPockets calculator estimate I did) is enough to cover the monthly payment plus the above costs I mentioned.I anticipate putting down my deposit and earnest money in the next few days. 

This is because your rental income is NOT calculated as simply as taking the rent minus the payment OR by simply taking the negative number on your tax returns. 

The 3xs monthly rent rule is an outdated calculation from a time period where income to living expenses evened out.

I have identified an ideal location, and the agent has informed me that the rent is $45 per square foot NNN, plus an additional $5 per square foot.Upon calculating the total annual cost, it appears that I would be responsible for over $80,000 per year.