Most banks have money market accounts and they're fairly liquid, so if you choose to use it as a down payment you can get it out at any time.Also keep in mind that if you buy a property, you really need a cushion.

Considering the comps, it looks like you might have a good cushion to absorb some unforeseen overages, but it is a risk.

I'm starting with wholesaling as I need to develop cash cushion and build contacts to get fully involved.  

It helps cushion any mistakes we may make due to our inexperience.  

I'm also planning to include a 10% buffer over my planned expenses...and my hard money lender requires another 10% above what I project as a cushion as well.

Whereas cash flow builds up your bank account monthly and gives you a cushion towards lumpy expenses.

He got laid off during the recession and though his RE investments cushioned the blow, his finances obviously decreased. 

I would normally say 60k so you can have more cushion but 50k can be 

I continue to invest for the long-term in real estate, stocks, and businesses, with a healthy cash cushion.

Here is a look at some of the numbers to start:Purchase price: $52,000Purchase closing costs: $1,250Rehab costs: $13,650Rehab cushion = $4,350 (I will explain the idea behind the cushion later)Total cash due at closing: $71,250ARV: $95,00075% cash out target: $71,250First thing I want to explain about the above numbers is the cushion amount.