I'd target areas near colleges or transit hubs for affordable properties, and I’d look into financing options like FHA loans or creative financing to make the most of my capital.

Private mortgage insurance i believe is not charged on va loans.  

I will secure the loan for everything.

Banks, particularly smaller banks who provide real estate loans are increasingly focused on their borrowers maintaining depository relationships.

My focus has been taking abandoned properties and renovating to rentals, both short and long term.

The tenant wants to stay another 2 years.My other adult properties have often had long-term tenants.

For example, if your house is worth $500,000 and you still owe $200,000 on your home loan, you have $300,000 in equity.

I’m currently in the process of searching for my first property, which I hope to house hack and eventually convert into a long-term rental. 

Sara, Just very slow this year in long and mid term.

@Richa Wardhan every investor has to find their own answer to your basic question - focus on portfolio growth or paying off what you have.Portfolio Growth leverages your money using loans and tenants paying off these loans.