It's critically important that you examine the underwriting and assumptions made in arriving at any particular performance projection to see if the projections make sense and are reasonably achievable. 

@Robert Shedden, I disagree with @Nik Moushon and @Jason R. 

I would disagree that the ideas aren't relevant to 99% of people here as there's value in knowing these concepts to most people that rent property, from big to small.

I would disagree with some of the specifics.

I'd disagree with Jaysen depending on where you live.

I definitely 100% disagree with local investing being safer, IMO, your risk of losing money is going to be higher in your market.

So I've been working on a tool that not only automates this process but also builds the intelligence behind it.The Relevant Information:A summary report will be available for each property for the investor to examine all the gathered fields.Property DetailsOwner InformationTax InformationForeclosure Case InformationDocket EntriesDefendant InformationMortgage PositionLiensViolationsOpen PermitsThe Intelligence:We created an easy to understand analysis that will give experienced and unexperienced investors a “birds eye’s view” of issues on any given listing using Icons, along with detailed explanations.No issues Found:Proceed With Caution:STOP!

Disagree w the above.  

I've been trying to come from the perspective that we need her cooperation and would reflect it upon examining her SD.

I honestly thought that was a great way to put it in perspective.Separate PointI did disagree when they said pulling out the equity makes the investment more secure.