I would be much happier with financing locked in for 15-20 years - esp at todays interest rates.

Just had potential long-term tenants sign the lease today so we couldn't be happier with how things are going thus far. 

This results in FREE word of mouth advertising for your business which directly correlates to more Money for your business and investments.Rule #2 Don't get EMOTIONAL when it comes to Money this directly leads to losing money which would go against Rule #1 Emotions are very dangerous in business, this can lead to sympathy for others, for example a contractor asking for some money upfront (you will never see him again) etc.

(This makes the tenant put their money where their mouth is)  However, this is the only time that you can force them to pay their rent (although to the court) the day of court. 

I put my head down and kept on working, tuning him out as he droned on and on about how unfair Murphy's Law had been to him while thinking to myself, "Keep your mouth shut, keep your mouth shut, this is how you get rich in America."

Also sounds like a great opportunity to do some painting this summer and work on potential leads for people who want to sell.From a home owner point of view, word of mouth is one of the strongest ways I would find a painting contractor.  

The easiest and cheapest way that I've found is just through good old word of mouth and REIA meetings.

Put your money where your mouth is, buy the durn property and THEN if you can flip it for a profit, we don't have a problem with that.

I will continue to look for a mentor the old fashion way, REIA meetings and word of mouth.  

Is it realistic to think we can find a GC who works more hand to mouth?