This approach ensured minimal holding costs and a faster return on investment.

But that extra $7200/year will go a long way in paying down your loan faster, build up another downpayment fund, pay off other debt, etc. 

That may allow you to save for another property faster.

@Shawn Tuma & @Chris KayVery difficult in today's market to cashflow putting 0% down:(5-10 years ago it was possible, but prices have increased faster than rents.Your best bet is to find a property that needs work, but will still pass a VA appraisal/inspection. 

The more time you get with the expert the faster you can move.

Market rents have been going up a lot faster than 3%.

Setting up an LLC and accessing 50k+ in business credit is a simple process that protects your personal finances and positions you to scale faster.

I'm now thinking that better areas/properties make more sense because they'd likely appreciate faster (which amplifies the return) and attract better/more stable tenants. 

I figured with the bottleneck in the courts, I'd have to wait till end of January for a number.But my dental hygienist told me her case went faster than that, and was able to have a nuisance tenant evicted in no time at all. 

When offers come in, prioritize pre-approved or cash buyers for a faster closing process, negotiating where needed to maximize your profit.Finally, conduct a post-sale analysis to evaluate your financials, noting how actual costs, timelines, and profits compared to your initial projections.