A SFR would be the ideal start point, or if you're feeling really really brave and want pop the clutch on REI.

Had the market turned south or something popped up that you didn't anticipate (bad roof, contaminated soil from an underground storage tank, etc.) this could have turned out bad.

Fortunately me and my two partners have our own cash to purchase these houses at 20-30K a pop split three ways.

Does the listing show good--agent remarks, do the photo's pop?

Additional credit lines or savings or something if a tenant loses a job and/or other unforseen problems pop up.

I'd like to be able to just set reminders for "home depot" then have them pop up when I arrive at any of them.A bit better integration would be helpful, too.

Meanwhile, study the listings in your area intently, check out what is popping up on Craigs List, look for real estate companies with web sites and study how they pitch their properties, go visit some apartment properties, drive around and survey your area, etc. etc.I also like having partners.

I can repaint the whole place with about 7 gallons.I pay a guy 75.00 a pop and it takes him about 1 to 2 days to finish.

Then it gets into the Mom & Pop landlords and their tenants.

I'm sure they may pop up now that the owner has passed.