Netted $50k but would have netted $150k if not for the crash, so I hope you understand my chariness.I prefer something that I feel is a great inflation buffer and has a strong rental income potential.

The Seattle market has consistently gone up 3% annually over the last 20 years - so although no superb cash flow...does offer kind of a buffer if the less drastic NC market with my cash flowing rentals (future potential rentals that is) dove down. 

Doing this to every number I saw, sometimes by $50 or $100, helped me feel more confident that I was creating a good buffer for myself.

Using conservatives numbers (I like to add in vacancy rate %, assume a bit lower than market rent, etc. so I have a buffer on cash flow)  is important so you're never forced to sell because the property becomes unsustainable and can always sell on your own terms when the timing is right

old properties more maintenance buffer needed based on my experience

Or more specifically, not accounting for ALL the costs, like expecting vacancy 1 month per year, or the buffer you should be including so that WHEN the roof needs to be replaced, etc. 

Because you can use the 16.5% as a buffer to pay off anything that comes along (maintenance/ fixing/ vacancy/ etc.).