If I have to buy a last-minute ticket or spend $1,000 or so for notarized signatures at a consulate, then it has a significant effect on my choices.

That’s perfect Glenn!! 

We would all love to have that note that has 5 years of perfect payments, 800+ credit score and a 20-25% down payment. 

If rates become more favorable in the future, we'll have an opportunity to refinance.Why we bought itThe 55-unit I mentioned earlier is a perfect comp for us.

With the right resources and help, you can still make it happen.There are options that can help make buying a home possible today — even if your savings are limited or your credit isn’t perfect.

No deal is perfect, and anyone on these forums will have different investment objectives as you, but you will typically get some things to at least think about before moving forward.

I think a good starting point would be looking at the comps in your area (recently renovated or new construction homes) that sold around your desired sale price and in your desired timeframe and taking inspiration from there design choices. 

That’s their choice, but here’s the reality: until the escrow is resolved, this home cannot be placed back on the market or shown to new buyers per MLS rules.

I was made to think "if you've put this much time, money, and effort into perfecting the development of secondary suites into SFR's, why would you move your focus onto another strategy?"

Popular choices like Fidelity, Schwab, or Vanguard let you invest in a range of stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs.