Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+, zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680, some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

Given a proper time horizon, I don't think most folks lose money, but in the short term real estate is a terrible "quit your job in 2 years with no money" strategy. 

:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+, zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680, some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

We are just looking for the best option to get started properly!

You are relying on guests to properly build and control a fire.There is no way I would expect guests to be making a fire and keeping in in control.If you are in the Rocky Mountain west, fire danger is a real thing and one stray spark from some green wood popping could create a wild fire.

Lastly, the proper way to leverage an investor-agent/professional investor is to make them your acquisition and sales specialist.

A realtor's job is to properly advise you.

,To piggyback off what @Michael S. said, you’ll find it pretty difficult to find a decent property in Huntsville proper on a $250,000 budget.Don’t worry, though—in nearby suburbs, your budget will work fine.

The more control they have, the easier it is for them to manufacture a dictatorial takeover.

i currently own a duplex and have been land lording for 18 yrs. i have found a potential investment opportunity  30 miles away. it is located in a community slated for substantial growth over the next decade due to the current construction of new semiconductor manufacturing facilities. the property is a 24 unit apartment building. supposedly it historically maintains 95-100% occupancy and has a waiting list. my question is what documentation should i expect the lenders to want?