What was the one book that changed your mindset and made you believe you could do this? 

That does not change if your rent is $600/mo or $1500/mo.  

However, your intent can change and you convert it into your primary residence. 

Yes the rate is great but if real estate does not appreciate or goes down in the next three years would that change your mind?

There is nothing magical about RE and nothing is secret.. the only thing I see that has really changed is how information is disseminated and transferred out to the public..

All messaging said "soon", when generally there would be some sort of notice or indication things would change. 

With record low inventory and sales transactions there's no low hanging fruit.In this market we think the best opportunities are value-add (BRRRR'ish), zoning changes allowing density (ADUs), or seller financing deals (buy a lower rate).

It is a bad idea to screen and then show homes with a smart lock code that I can change? 

This may change some valuations but nothing will likely be finalized in the next 12-months.

That was some time ago and opinions do change but last I had heard it was positive.