What do you experienced investors see as the big differences/benefits/disadvantages between Banks and Credit Unions?

I am at a disadvantage because I will be getting a mortgage.

Without learning the "Five Core Competencies" (Lead Generation, Lead Followup, Prequalification, and Closing Skills), you are already at a disadvantage.  

A good read it is. Check the linkhttp://entreprisenk.com/?p=705

The disadvantage would be that I could only pick up one property every 18 months or so.

If they all have garages then a rehabbed property without one will be at a disadvantage.

My wife and I will be staying on this property relying on the low mortgage to save up some money and this will be our first property if we do get it.)Based on your experiences, does using a VA loan bring me at a disadvantage or is that something they prefer?

I don't really see any disadvantages to having your license.

I would not pick a really disadvantaged area of town to start, but a blue-collar, working class neighborhood is not much more money to start and can be very profitable.

Finally, I would have to think there are many tax disadvantages that would deter someone from using an SDIRA and make them more inclined to use after-tax cash.