This doesn't come cheap--these folks were making high six to seven figures depending on volume.We focused on lending to professional real estate investors--so our customers were frequent repeat borrowers. 

Add a picture you've personally taken of the property if you use postcards.

Do you see Nike cold calling customers or driving for dollars?

I don't think I could justify custom cabinets for a $1500 rental. 

It didn't yell "cute" in the Zillow picture, but improving curb appeal won't be a huge investment.

Lenders often consider the whole picture, so keep building that credit but don't let it hold you back from exploring options.Since you're considering a trailer to fix up, have you thought about markets like East Phoenix or the outskirts of Austin?

It will have 10 bedroom and 13 bathrooms.Here are some pictures.

I would have to get with the property manager and mimic the exact plans they have set up in the lease, all of which were probably customized by the PM to get a few extra dollars.  

This approach will allow you to focus on the financial benefits rather than the day-to-day operational tasks.Additionally, consider how this rental income will contribute to your overall financial picture.

Principal Paydown: $2,441 Total Gain: $58,317 ROI: 360.32% (on $16,185 upfront investment: 3.5% down payment of $8,715 + 3% closing costs of $7,470).Year 2 Analysis Cash Flow: -$752 Home Appreciation: $6,120 Principal Paydown: $2,617 Total Gain: $7,985 ROI: 49.34%.Year 3 Analysis Cash Flow: -$375 Home Appreciation: $6,242 Principal Paydown: $2,806 Total Gain: $8,674 ROI: 53.59%.Year 4 Analysis Cash Flow: $9 Home Appreciation: $6,367 Principal Paydown: $3,009 Total Gain: $9,386 ROI: 57.99%.Based on these numbers, you’d have negative cash flow for the first three years and only break even in Year 4, assuming a 2.5% annual rent increase.Adjusted Scenario see second picture: Landlord Covers Gas and WaterIn the second scenario, I assumed the landlord would pay for gas and water at $300/month while maintaining the same 2% home appreciation rate.