@James Denon There are pros and cons to both, but if you want to invest in a larger deal, you should ensure you supplement your lack of experience with either a partner or property management firm.

$ NOI improvement / cap rate = market value addedForced appreciation is great and you control it.1 - raise rents to market value2 - enforce late fees3 - charge application fees4 - supplemental income (laundry, parking, vending)5 - reduce vacancy6 - screen properly to reduce turnover7 - respond quickly to maintenance requests to improve tenant retention8 - clean up landscaping9 - address deferred maintenance10 - rehab units and raise rents 11 - dispute tax assessed value12 - shop insurance, landscaping, garbage, pest control, snow removal, painting, flooring, HVAC, plumbing, electrical...the list goes on13 - ratio bill shared utilities (if the market will bear it)Every $1 improvement in NOI = $10 improvement in value on a 10 cap, for example.  

I am not the type to jump in blind, and would rather gain knowledge from those who have already made the mistakes I am sure to make if I begin on my own accord.Which is ultimately what brings me here.I am not under the illusion that wholesaling will be the final answer to my financial aspirations, and I do plan to pursue the larger aspects of REI after I have established myself.With that being said, I am hoping to gain insight into options that may be available alongside the wholesaling venture.My current situation/expected alternatives:1) Access to VA home loan (for which I am aware of the 12 month residency requirements).2) >12k TSP savings contribution (which is available for loan if needed for down payment).3) Flexibility to move to more beneficial location when my enlistment is up (2019).4) Currently in position to move my active residency as my rent lease will soon end.In regards to risks/potential returns on using loans to invest in property now to be used down the line, my ultimate question is this: Do I focus on wholesaling to get my foot in the door, or should I also be exploring other options to supplement my plan?

That substantially increases the cost of the projectOn the price, being really generic: if the house is "close to turn key" - about $3-$10 per sq foot, "needs cosmetics" - $20-$30 and "substantial rehab" to "why didn't we demolish that one" is between $30 - $80

They would possibly have a generic document they would share with you or set up for a small fee.Good luck on the deal!

I have several generic templates and misc. forms but they all need to be reviewed by my attorney. 

is too generic a question.

Owner occupied is likely around 4.25% right now which means NOO will be 0.5% to 1.0% higher, generically.6.

@Jon Holdman about getting an education, it doesn't rule out real estate investing, but can supplement it very nicely.

The generic "speed cote" paint at the depot has covered every color I've tried in two coats, at under $15 a gallon.