Market fluctuations make me nauseous.

It fluctuates.

Plus, not knowing how the market & economy can fluctuate in the future, it may be nice to have some of that padded equity to lean on if needed.My overall goal is to continue growing my current (and future potential) cash flow ($$), not necessarily maximize ROI or cash-on-cash return.  

Price are fluctuating fast and I want to keep all options open (Buy, Sell, release).   

One tip--if you end up including in the rent, make sure you've looked at a few years of monthly charges so you're familiar with how it may fluctuate and come up with the right # the first time.

The market has way to many fluctuations because of the military.

Have higher valued properties fluctuated much in Ozark Missouri?   

The fact that the ratio greatly increases during economic booms (when appreciation is high) and decreases during down times shows that while prices fluctuate greatly overtime rental rates remain relatively consistent.

I wanted to make sure that there weren't loans out there that provide protection to the lender against market fluctuations by requiring that the borrower maintain equity within a certain percentage of the remaining balance on the loan.

Also, because you mention you are in the 'education phase, consider that if your tenants will be lower/middle income - covering heat can be one way to minimize seasonal issues with delinquent rent payments - because it can be hard for people on restricted income to manage seasonal, fluctuating payments.