Ready to get inputs from experts here !!

The retirement/financial independence equation he uses is a paid off primary home, 500k in liquid assets (usually retirement, cash, and after tax brokerage account), and more than 1 source of income (part time job, real estate, social security for those of that age, dividends, etc.).

Most air conditioning experts tell you to set the A/C temperature to 20 degrees lower than the outside temperature.I recommend finding a good article, then keeping it as a reference to share with tenants.

My W2 is affording me some extra time and I want to spend that time building my REI experience.I am a commercial lighting and interior designer and lighting controls expert. 

Definitely ask your local experts their insights into your market. 

While there’s no hard-and-fast rule, many experts suggest renting it out for at least a year or two to demonstrate that it was an investment.

Most 100% lenders will lend at 100% UP TO 70% ARV, which is tough to secure.

Any advice on how I go about securing financing for less than $100k?

Here's why. 1) If you take 6K off the loan amount, it drops your payment $41.44 per month but, if you take the same 6K and buy down your rate by .375%, your payment drops $226.73 per month. 2) While experts are predicting the Feds will cut the Fed Fund Rate, that doesn’t have a direct correlation to mortgage rates.

You typically don't want to do any renovations before the 2 years is up...just basic safety and securing the property.#4.