The interest rate isn't that huge of a difference between the 15 and 30 so worst case scenario if you have the 30 year option is you start paying it down on a 15 year timeline - sure you'll pay a little more in interest over the 15 years, but it will have been worth it if you bought another house.

Don't look for lowest rate, look for lowest cost on fees as you will either refinance out of that loan or sell- the prepay will hit you on the back of the head like a cinderblock wall.

Come up with terms (Down Payment, Interest Rate, and Amortization Schedule) such as a 5% Down Payment, a 6% Interest Rate, and 30 Year Amortization Schedule.

We talked about an aggressive paydown at a rate of $5k for the next 6 months to make the deal sweeter for the next person, but renting it would be preferable to that I believe since I can get a higher return on smaller development projects at a burn rate like that. 

Im self employed, roughly make $130k gross anually, 1099 NEC , no debt at all, 740 credit score.  Want to get a loan for $250k in AZ

Market Fluctuations – What if appreciation stalls, or rates rise, impacting your refi strategy?

The reason I ask is because most deals I see on Crexi or Loopnet or anywhere else create negative cash flow under 7 or even 10 year terms with 7% - 8% interest rate.

The metrics I'm primarily focused on are: rent appreciation rate, property appreciation rate, economic growth rate, unemployment rate on the macro level.

Plus, there are upfront costs to consider, like furnishing your condo and any expenses tied to managing it as a rental.As for refinancing, it might not be the right time with interest rates where they are.

Rates will at some point allow you to refinance.