That is the location, the areas economy, the price you get,  first impression, the nearby amenities and retail stores, the demand in that area for rentals, and the price you get. 

If you are buying a window unit you may not find them in stores now.

The books in the BP store are excellent - Brandon's book on Low and No Money Down, Anson's book on Finding and Funding Great Deals, and J.

Some resources I would suggest:Read Brandon Turner's book on rental property investing https://www.biggerpockets.com/store/rental-investing-digitalListen to the BP Real Estate podcast https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastListen to the BP money podcast https://www.biggerpockets.com/moneyshowAttend local REI events https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happeningsStart analyzing deals to get practice and check out the  BP calculatorsKeep interacting and engaging with others on the BiggerPockets forumsAll the best,

I have shoped home depot, Menards, and a few other department stores, but have consistently bought appliances for about $40 to $120 cheaper from Sears.

Getting a special and start off with low down payment is not as good as you think but if the  the location is important as a consideration, the demand for what you buy property and tenant screening, it's in  growth area, is it located within a diverse area, the parking that is available, do you have deep enough pocket if funds are needed, Do nearby amenities exist, is there any nearby retail stores and what are they and does it fit your ideal tenant, and are there any existing tenants. 

It’s alot of coordination between my contractor (when and how many will be available and where to store them) and the charity facility who comes to pick up.

Im seeing if anyone can recommend a store that has the best deals for appliances as I need to outfit two kitchens.

I've laid store bought traps through the kitchen area, but we're in need of a long term resolution.

Looks like it's too late for schluter so we are using some cheap styrofoam trim our local hardware store recommended for bathrooms.