That said - I think a simple muitual fund would give me better returns on the same money ($900k) at 8-12% (i.e., $72k - $108k). 

Unless this is strictly a student housing for IU play you would want to be extremely hands on to make this work in my opinion.

Unless you're handing down to family, maybe its a good time to sell.

Buy a simple umbrella policy.

It is a simple and effective way to make your HVAC utilize propane.

I have had a handful of buyers assume VA properties as investors last year.

Let's break it down to make it simple.1.

If you just take the 13,835 financed at 6% you are adding 83 dollars a month. so a double whammy.Now, lets consider if rates drop to 5.5% in 24 months (not a prediction just a what if) and you could have refinanced at a much lower costs then the above scenario in what you paid in pre-paid and additional interest. on the other hand, if rates for your same scenario after your 5 year payback period is 9, then you will have an asset with a much lower then current market rent.  

We may find a handful of deals this year. 

I do think they were trying to have a legit business, but I think it was out of hand and they weren't able to manage it properly.