I would like a fresh start, but due to my children's special needs I had been in and out of work over the past ten years. 

I have a wife and children therefore I am not able to be as risky as if I had started when single. 

Also, how do you feel about adopting one of their children to satisfy a dependent requirement (heh)?

Or do you expect to put that burden on the government or your children?

They may be better for appreciation and for a family with small children, though ... lot's of advantages and great options available for owner occupants to consider.

Stocking the apt with ikea furniture pays for itself in only a couple months.

I am 23 years old, married with two children, and my goal is to aquire enough buy and hold rental properties to provide my family financial independence.  

Often times distressed sales are facilitated by a family member.I'm in the middle of a deal right now where the children of the property owner are the decision makers due to the health of the owners.Ultimately, the questions about motivation are the same and your first objected is to view the property...

A Rollin shower is less valuable to a family with children (larger market I'd say) than the tub that was removed.

"Get good grades to get into a good college to get a good job and raise good children that get good grades to get into a good college to get a good job and raise good..."