Like everyone has said, it depends on multiple criteria:  The type of rental, type of foundation, type of target tenant and how price sensitive you are.  

Anything I need to be sure to safe guard against or avoid in the policy?

It depends on your long-term goals about this being a non-smoking property and your own tolerance and sensitivity to smoke.

I have always looked younger than my age and it is a sensitive issue for me when people talk down to me.  

IMO, the income approach is far less subjective and sensitive to community / neighborhood issues as the rents substantiate the value.

IMHO, if I was going to want to essentially quit my job in 10 years, I would want to secure keep some of my funds liquid to safeguard my family, as well as, ensure that I was able to successfully manage all of my properties without the need to reenter the workforce.Hope this questions help us better assist you in realizing your dream!

Account Closed  agree with your take on bad agents and bad wholesalers.And that certain deals are time sensitive and agents may not be the best avenue.The reason I have owned a few brokerages over the years was to get a pipeline to the distress need cash tomorrow deals.. that my rookie agents could no way put together.My point and its the only point .. is that there is a RE industry.. and the person that grabs a home on a wholesale contract then tries to market it on crags list and only closes if they can flip..

Direct mail experts - For lists that are less time sensitive - e.g.

@Michael Huey Just approach them and be sensitive of their issues.

That said, the rules are around because on average, they are the safeguards for where profits fall.