Regardless of your choice, just remember that fear is part of the game and it's normal to have it but never let it consume you when the I's are dotted and T's are crossed, sometimes the only way is through so take courage and go on your way!

If you’re currently living in a bad school district and want your kids in a better school district or some other safety / life choice, you may need to compete in this market.

Stick to fundamental buy-and-hold real estate...noting glamorous or fancy...If you have safe, clean, and appropriately priced units...focus on C-class value add, and maybe consider working with the local housing authority to accept housing choice vouchers, you will have long-term occupancy, debt paydown, and equity build for life.Investing is relative, and I doubt your main motivation to invest in RE is to contribute to the list of "25 fastest growing cities in the US"Best of luck

Spend a lot of time getting to know the neighborhoods in your market of choice. 

We started a shared bank account and are on our way to setting up Wave as our book keeping software of choice.

I think 3-4 days is the max I've had for vacancy that was the by choice so I could address a few things.

We have been trying to learn everything we can but we certainly don't want to make uneducated and poor investment choices. 

We are beginning to see a bit of a slow down with buyers in San Diego, this could be a great time to get back in the market depending on your goals and neighborhood of choice. 

@Javaughn HarknessExcellent choice.

We have 2 loan scenarios: FHA with 3% interest rate and 3.5%($17,000) down BUT we have to claim $150k of income on our tax returns for 2 years and pay IRS 70K (2 years worth) total in taxes because we are self employed. 2nd scenario: private lender offering 4.5% interest rate with 5% ($27,000) down 8 year interest only loan converting to fixed thereafterwhats the wise choice?