If I take into account the total return (which includes appreciation of the property), it changes into the expected theme of more debt equals more return: maximum debt (26.3%), moderate debt (10.52%) and no debt (9.77%).And in a bad recession (10% price drop and 20% rent drop), the performance is reversed.

So it sounds like a common theme is dropping inventory. 

This includes custom murals/theming, in-house movie theatres, personal hot tubs, unique game rooms, etc.

Is there a general theme of what California buyers are looking for in the Midwest?

I thought as a way to help lower my tax bill I could buy a ‘primary residence’ here … and then rent it out…Feel like something that I know these areas, they are no longer in my backyard per se but if I were to ever move back in the future I'd have some property there…I’m not sure if my sentiments are clouding my judgment here, but I’m seeing props with 1% LTR and in areas that will be/are booming (hello new Universal Theme Park), duplexes in other/less desirable areas, etc.

I have concluded that the negative college theme is a result of how much we've become focused on "instant gratification". 

Ryan, I see from your multiple threads on the borrowing theme that you're REALLY REALLY keen to get as much money out of Lenders for as little down as possible.

Thank you for pointing this out to me, I have done a good amount of research but is excellent to hear from someone that confirms some of my suspensions.

Common theme in the recommendations is a quality housekeeper, so I'll be sure to invest heavily in that part of my team. 

There is a reoccurring theme that insurance companies limit is $350k when I would like the entire loan covered.