I think you should look at it as, which lender will provide me with a good service  and can close at a reasonable cost?

I would recommend saving at least 20% down, 12 months reserves and closing costs.

I would hope to really be looking for opportunities in the fall of next year and close in 2026 or sooner.

@Stuart BartleIf you are looking at investing out of state it doesn't matter how close the property is to you.

One closes on their first investment property next week.  

Back when a close friend of mine; he’s a commercial landlord in Phoenix who once took on a quircky triplex in a tough neighborhood..decided to reshuffle his insurance setup, I saw firsthand how getting stuck in a clunky policy can really stall your forward momentum.

Expect, to only get about 8% (or lower) of the properties you buy redeemed.If you pay close attention to the type of property, and do research to protect your interests, the percentage does jump up to about 30%-50% on the properties eligible for two year redemption.

Tenant was acquired with property upon closing(they have lived in their unit for 2+ years with on time payments).

This includes:- Purchase price- Renovation costs- Closing costs (buying and selling)- Holding costsThese expenses offset the selling price to calculate your taxable gain. 

Did you close on your property ?