One method I try is putting into perspective how many months rent equals my downpayment.  

I'd say knowing who I should not go with and why is equally valuable, so I appreciate that tip. 

Total property income MINUS yearly expenses Equals either positive or negative cash flow.

The two percent rule means the monthly rent should equal two percent of the purchase price .

It's vital to do this if you want to achieve long term success.

As long as the criteria is applied equally to ALL applicants  you’re fine. 

Investors build portfolios of investments so working is optional.Also, whenever I see someone looking for free knowledge/training, I try to remind them that there needs to be an equal exchange of value/time on both sides. 

Still, while letters do a lot of the heavy lifting so to speak, the mailing list is equally crucial to a successful campaign.

Net annual cashflow after cashing out equals x% of your acquisition cost plus capital expenditures. 

You put 3k down for closing costs, which is roughly equal to what you'd need to escrow just to close, assuming the $250/mo property tax estimate was accurate.