Hey @Dominique Guinnane - as far as I'm aware, a rate buy down is what the buyer (typically, unless there are seller concessions) pays for in order to get their rate at a lower amount over a specified time period.

Real estate can be an excellent investment, but ensuring you can comfortably manage the payments is vital, even if you encounter negative cash flow periods.

Most DSCR products at the moment have a 6 month seasoning period.

FYI: groundwater raises and lowers (it usually raises after periods of rain/snow melt), and if the slab of the house is too close to the water table--that is, if the slab is too low--ground water can rise, and seep up through the slab from underneath the house.

Not sure if you could rent a room for short periods or not, but it may be an option for your travel needs.

Versus Getting a mortgage and paying the interest but being able to buy more real estate instead of waiting and saving for a longer period of time.I know this is probably a tough question right now due to the virus but I’m just curious about people’s insight on buying in full versus getting a mortgage.

Lots of sprinting and short bursts followed by longer periods where there is minimal activity.Leasing season is 2.5 months of non-stop tenant inquiries and requests.

I am thinking I will keep this long term as I focus on improving rents, so a holding period is not a big deal as long as it is not too long. 

I personally don’t like installment sale contracts or contracts for deeds, especially over long periods of time.

Solid wood is a plus, it depends what period of design you're looking for though?