The biggest thing is vetting the operator as they ultimately drive the returns.

The beauty of this is that intermediaries who work with me know that I make “fair” offers based on VERIFIABLE facts, that I follow through with completed deals unless important information was with held or information provided was false, and that there’s absolutely no value in presenting deals to me where the seller/borrower/investor is unrealistic, naive, or otherwise wanting to “test” the market.  

I DO NOT care whether he drives a Toyota himself.

I had a case where it looked like the umbrella policy could get used but 1) ended up Not being needed 2) was vehicle related, not RE related.Our Son’s girlfriend was driving one of our vehicles and got into an accident.  

A nice portfolio is 10-40 properties, and yes you should drive by your own assets to check for broken windows.

It seems like you just really wanted this property so you let your emotions drive your offer.

Plus, your proactive steps, like cold-calling and Driving For Dollars, show your commitment and enthusiasm!

Also, an 8min walk vs 8 min drive is a big difference in the world of student housing. 

@Wells H. you can spend DAYS driving through Detroit!

It's all about going and testing to see which investment group works best for you, typically you get to go to your first meeting for free.