As far as rates I see them declining slower than expected but lowering nonetheless. 

Expect rates to be higher than "typical" financing programs - right now, I'd plan for at least 8%+ depending on the whole scenario. 

I think it's about the best time there is to outside of the past to invest and acquire properties.I just recently found an article by Julie Taylor from realtor.com that was posted December 10th that has some predictions on housing markets where "Home Sales Are Set to Soar" with Colorado Springs listed as number 1 with expected YoY sales increase of 27.1% and Denver expected to increase 13.6% YoY quoting Christine Dupont-Patz who is a real estate agent in the Denver area. 

These guru's pitch get rick quick with no money down, so people "want to be investors" but fail to start because they had unrealistic expectations from day 1.  

The result was that a few maps had the lots reversed - in actuality A1 was the tennis court lot and A2 was the house, although intuitively one would expect the opposite.  

I'm not sure what you've heard or are expecting, but as with anything in life you generally get out of it what you put into it. 

Too bad other hosts don't consider the new expectations we're receiving not only from guests but also OTA sites.

@Fulati PaerhatiRecommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Clear communication on expectations is key—I'd definitely push them to split that $250 cost at the very least! 

This can provide a benchmark for the appraiser and support your expected value.Be Present During the Appraisal: If possible, be there to answer any questions the appraiser might have and to point out the improvements you've made.