Heck, I bet there are families that make $100k/year living in $500k houses they don’t rent out.

Your best bet would be to go Fannie Mae with 5% down first (still 4 units must be owner occupied), then use your VA to get 4 more units in a year or so. 

I think if you're looking for a "jumping off point" for international travel, a larger airport like Tampa is a better bet.

Hey guys, I am from the Chicago suburbs area and I am involved in general contracting!

You will be taxed at your marginal tax rate.Best bet: Consult your CPA and try to not do you taxes yourself.

You should also not be involving the parents...they are not on the lease.

Right now capital is at a minimum and I’m improving credit so while I start saving money and networking with other investors, I’ve decided that whole-selling is probably my best bet to get a little extra cash in the bank account before I go buy a hold property.Anyway, I’m curious on a few things:What’s an average wholesale fee in California?

It may or may not be necessary to meet up in person but I find getting involved and flying out to join the local real estate investor meetings has worked well also.

For me, it has been challenging but has been the most rewarding opportunity I have ever gotten involved with.

yea thats a good bet...