I'm not concerned about the financing part since I underwrite them for a living but I need to just focus one thing at a time build a stronger track record.

Picking a great market is the first mission-critical step.Tennessee and Texas are not markets; they're states.Columbus is definitely a lot stronger than Cleveland.

Oftentimes, you're competing against other investors that may have cash on hand or a stronger loan product that's more appealing to the seller.

In 2009 Europe were not in crisis yet and Euro was Stronger ($1.48 per Euro).Despite the fact my US property did not match the 2% rule I consider it a good choice because in this time the Europe/Italy future is uncertain and It is good to have an asset in Foreign country.Furthermore it is good way to learn how to manage a business remotely.

If you have just brought your property to market I would wait awhile and see if a stronger buyer pops up.

I tried doing a search, but I'm not sure I am using the right words or combinations to find recent info.I am working on my biz plan and my realtor is telling me there is a stronger demand for rentals than resale here in Columbia, SC, so I am trying to figure out how to make the process work.Thanks

This is great for tenants looking to build stronger credit, so we market it as an advantage.

Ideally, if you can fund the project in cash, your numbers will be much stronger.  

Is there a different financing option we could take to bring a stronger offer or a more creative way of financing the deal?

If your Buyer’s agent learns that there are competing Offers, then you have to determine in close consultation with your loan officer if you want to waive your mortgage financing clause to make a stronger offer.