I recommend you do this annually to adjust for utility increases and other variables.

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

Shame on those here recommending it.Similarly, don’t even consider borrowing against your personal residence—even if you could qualify.

Because this is your first rental property, I would recommend finding an amazing PM company and paying them what they are worth.

Do you have any recommendations for learning how wholesale contracts work and learning more about the wholesaling process?  

build to rent is great. they are an intermediary that help investors contract direct with turn key new build. they are pretty sophisticated we have sold a house so far and we are looking to sell other multifamily with them. there is a vetting process and as an intermediary they don't control construction they help vet builders and establish relationships. they have a big team. the other builder I've never heard of but unless you can see your house I wouldn't touch it. rent to retirement has a strict policy of 90 days until certificate of occupancy until they will send a deal out they are good at what they do and I'd recommend them. they have options all over the country and established relationships.

And are there any meet up groups you would recommend joining for real estate investing ?

For point #4, do you have any recommendations on how to find a good sponsor?

I would recommend anyone lending in this environment to fix and flippers or any type of investment to be careful and get a personal guaranty and make sure person has a long track record.

There is statutory, and Fannie/Freddie guidelines, that explicitly exempt these transfers from being subject to the Due On Sale Clause...asset protection/estate planning purposes are covered.Why Use LLC when an Umbrella Policy Does the Same?