I am not particularly fond of the area I am in so that is a challenge looking for properties in different areas.

Plus, if you have instant equity, you can pull it back out with a cash out refi in 6 months.If you're more fond of Maryland, I hear that Baltimore is a great cash flowing city too, but I don't have any experience there.

@Paul Mendel  Ian T. you guys seem to be the most familiar with the Albany area.I went to SUNY-Albany from '09-'13 and lived in the "college ghetto" for one year and while I'm somewhat familiar with the area I realize renting and investing are two completely different things.What are you guys thoughts on renting in the "college ghetto" and if you guys aren't to familiar with it or fond of the idea do you recommend any other student rentals areas that are a better option, maybe geared towards other schools such as st.rose, Albany med, sage, etc.

@Blake Alexander I'm fond of the IRR reports (irr.com).

Since you are already renting, one of the methods that Brandon Turner from BP is fond of doing is called 'House Hacking'.  

Most credit unions will go to 70-80% (most only go to 70% or less) on an investment 1-4 unit property however they may have limits to the amount of financed properties you have on your credit profile.Local and regional banks I've seen will allow non owner HELOC's as well so you may want to check out these two types of conduits for your HELOC.The larger national players usually are not fond of HELOC's on non owners, however I've heard wells will go to 60% on non owners at 6% or so but you'll have to check in with each bank.

The housing courts are fond of slapping the landlords with triple damages if they fail to comply with the laws. 

We find it extremely difficult to fond a good painting crew.  

I have always been fond of entrepreneurship and the idea of having my business(es).  

I look back fondly upon his words of wisdom.