However the laws changed dramatically back in 07 or 08.. two laws were past to present equity skimming etc etc..

Most importantly, when you invest in a good market that is still dramatically growing in population, your rents will likely go up year after year along with gaining strong appreciation. 

I noticed that the price swings were not as dramatic.

It also dramatically shortened my learning curve.

If you could get the price to $250,000 with 10% down and seller financing for 10 years at 5%, then the attractiveness increases dramatically.

But, I can say that the country, on a whole, has seen a dramatic increase in prices.

This will help you'll perfect your unfair advantage and dramatically increase your net income.So, go for it!

Modular is less expensive, but not dramatically less... 5% - 15%, maybe.  

Fortunately for me my "short term rentals" are 60 day minimum stays which keeps me in compliance with the HOA, means I don't fall under the current local definition of short term, and reduces my turnover and management costs dramatically.  

You can improve your score dramatically in 3-6 months if you take the right steps, and you need to get that advice from an experienced source like a lender.