I have been involved in building new home most of my life.

I don't want to have success just to have it blow up in my face just as quick...I want to keep loan to values as low as possible with the goal of paying off the properties in 5-10 years, and have cashflow for life

Kay H.I've been there trying to balance life and also invest in your business, it gets tough.

What you can really afford depends on your overall life expenses.Do you currently rent?

I like: Epic Real Estate InvestingReal Estate Flip TipsREIClub.comLearn eal Estate Investing/Lifestyles UnlimitedReal Life Real Estate InvestingReal Estate Investing MasteryNo Limits Real Estate Investing PodcastREIology Real Estate Investing SimplifiedSome of the above don't have weekly podcasts but the older ones are all excellent.

Clarification: FHA loans originated after July-something, 2013, can never have the MIP removed for the life of the loan.

I imagine maintenance costs would be higher - shorter roof, exterior paint life, etc.

As you mentioned healthcare is your largest monthly expense and that is precisely why I was so concerned with this issue, so thank you for your honesty and real life experience.

Make sure its a Durable power of attorney so if he were to get an illness that made him incompetent it would not become void.There is also a type of deed called a life estate.

Remember, the BOD members are most likely volunteer people from all walks of life.