My observations of investors I have spoken with who have owned about 8 to 20+ properties, is that most landlord type investors go ahead and put 20 % down on solid properties.

Now, those are just my observations.

Wise investors evaluate many reports and sources of information to develop a market opinion.My personal market cycle observations:Based on this market cycle monitor and my personal observations in the markets that I currently operate in, here are my observations:San Francisco: 12 months from a PEAK (end of expansion phase), although the impact of tech growth is unprecedented and may stretch the cycle out… maybe 24 to 36 months from a true peak.

Here's what makes me look OOS - and yes these are just my assumptions/observations right now ( and I welcome being told where/why I'm mistaken)1) Affordability - A decent house in the Bay Area where I live starts at 550K.  

But, a personal observation/belief.....on any good rehab deal, hard money is cheaper than 50% of the profits.

From my limited experience/observation it takes a combination of city investment, new restaurant/retail, and incoming homeowners to turn a neighborhood around.  

There is supposed to be a gap between siding and the roof. http://www.jameshardie.com/d2w/installation/hardie...Observe page 2, figure 3 - "Roof to wall"

I'm not trying to scare anyone off from lending, the issue is that most lenders I see on BP don't seem to be aware of the bigger picture as they drill down to a micro level attempting to avoid the rules, just my observation.

I went with my clients and other investors. they are fun to watch ;) you do realize the same players bid ;)these are my observations, this took place in a formal court house, 4 hours long :) 1. most property are postponed or resolved, those up for bids mostly no one bids. and bank get it at cost. 2. bidder vs bank, if bank out bids bidder.. bidder withdraws, bank buys at cost.3. bidder vs bidder, bank waits til highest bid. then steps in, if bid higher than what they want winning bidder get it for end bid amount.4. bidder vs bidder, bank wait til highest bid, steps in and if bid is under, bank bids higher. if bidder withdraws, bank buys at cost.I think it's because bank wins most of the time. the unfairness I felt at the time was that bank wipes out the bidding and buys at cost.

Staying calm helps me listen and understand my tenant but also helps me stay in control of my emotions and stay focus.Talk Slowly & Observe -> As tension rises, I slow down and observed the situation.