Also, focus on 2 years of job/income stability.Class D Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, all cashflow with little, maybe even negative, relative rent & value appreciationVacancy Est: 20%+ should be used to cover nonpayment, evictions & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores under 560 (almost 30% probability of default), little to no good tradelines, lots of collections & chargeoffs, recent evictions.

Since I work pretty hard at my day job and don’t have much renovation experience, I wanted something simple—a rental I could put a tenant in and at least break even.

I do relatively well in my day job by today's standards but my hourly rate for self managing is closer to that of a surgeon. 

Maybe the 2017 tax and jobs act gets extended, but either way, if tax savings is the primary motivation, don't do it. 

They are there on time reliably, do a good job managing inventory/off site laundry, and generally do a good job cleaning overall.

.• The confidence to believe they can achieve financial independence.It’s amazing how small moments like these can inspire the next generation to think bigger and dream bolder.How are you involving your family in your real estate journey?

Don’t start a new job .

California offers great job markets and weather, but comes with high costs. 

Alternatively, once you have a full time job (or an employment contract), you should be able to qualify for a loan and utilize a Down Payment Assistance program.

I do know managing more than 1 property is a tall task unless that is pretty much your job.