By this time next year, we aim to have invested in our first rental property and improved our credit, setting a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling future.I am open to any knowledge or advice anyone has to give as I am currently learning about real estate investing. 

Is there an issue with getting set up with one or more of the credit bureaus and starting to report on our borrowers?

One thing I would highly recommend that I wish I knew was ask if the seller would be willing to give a credit for a sewer scope, and get a feel for how much they will give. 

Also you can make the same argument for brokers that people make to favor the relator model (i.e. you get a better deal). 

What credit score do you anticipate tenants having?

I have a US credit score, US bank accounts and some US-based income, but my paychecks are not.

As for gray areas in contracts, the courts will almost always find in favor of the party who did NOT write the lease.  

Lending favors w2 employment.Self employed have; Non of the above. exactly my point if your going to be self employeed you need to make a bunch more than your salary with bene's.

They allow you to get funds at more favorable terms than with a loan or credit card.

I'm in the Orlando market and it is definately softening now and favors buyers.