-Save extra money-Take advantage of low to zero down mortgages-Make use of your retirement plan-Find a roommate-Cut back on non-essentialsWhich one(s) have you implemented?

That said, unless the house is pristine, you'll usually want to bring up some areas of concern to at least shave a few thousand more off of the original price.

So following your goal path, what step(s) have you taken towards your goal of investing in real estate?

What hard money lender(s), contractor(s), appraiser(s) have you used/ suggest?

The gap is maybe an inch big.On the side of the window it looks like there is this yellow foam pad behind what was the caulking that now broke down.

I frequently see 4-plex's that have original kitchens from the 70's and 80's, have neglected maintenance over long periods of time, or even have leases that are several years old without any increases in rental rates.

Keep in mind, that if you refi to 30 and shave positive CF, your tenant is paying your mortgage...not you.

And what property type(s) have they worked on for you?  

The tenant has, in fact, not been paying this premium because previous landlord(s) have evidently not picked up on the discrepancy.

You get lower rate, shave 15 years, own free in clear, and can tap into equity quicker.