I usually schedule an open-house style showing on a weekend, collect applications from interested parties that day so basically at the same time, and pick the most qualified applicant (the first one to apply who meets the criteria clearly listed in my ad, whose employment and references check out).

@Dan PaneaAt the bare minimum, you should do the following to make your bookkeeping easier:1 Dedicate one checking account and credit card exclusively to real estate.

Check it out!

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the bes

I've been getting started with DealMachine as well and will check out the interview. 

KBKR has free webinars covering their cost segregation tools that I am going to check out (free CPE!).

Furthermore, understanding the resident characteristics allows me to measure the target market and modify my investment strategy accordingly.Inspection ChecklistSituations vary from one property to the next, but here is an on-site inspection checklist to get you started:Interior Units:Inspect vacant units, including one of each finish out type (Classic, Reno, etc.).Check all down units.Inspect one unit from each unit mix.Exteriors:Landscape:Look for overgrown bushes.Identify trees that need trimming (no branches hanging over the roof).Take pictures of the following:Curb appeal on all sides facing the street.Landscape around the office and amenities.Overgrown bushes or trees.Any dead landscape.Areas that may need sod or mulch.Assess drainage:Ensure water flows away from building foundations.Check slope, gutters, downspouts, surface drains, French drains, etc.Exterior Walls:Determine the existing material (wood, vinyl, Hardie, brick, stone).Assess the condition of the walls.Note if painting is required.Take pictures of each building, including building number, each elevation (clockwise), and any breezeways or niches.Windows:Evaluate the condition of existing windows.Consider whether solar screens should be installed.Roof:Identify the type of roof.Assess its condition and age.Parking Lot:Check for potholes.Assess the need for restriping.Note whether the parking lot is concrete or asphalt.Evaluate drainage issues.Walkway:Look for tripping hazards.Assess drainage issues.Foundation/Gutters:Inspect for cracks in the brick.Check for separation in corners from fascia and trim boards.Evaluate drainage and identify poor drainage areas.Amenities:Identify possible improvements.Consider adjustments or additions that can enhance amenities.Talk to the Staff:Maintenance: Inquire about the physical condition.Office: Discuss current residents, delinquency, and potential changes to add value.Assess whether rents are too high or too low.Confirm rents and what is included/not included.Confirm other sources of income and associated charges.Confirm occupancy, pre-release, and vacancy numbers.Note: Maintain professionalism and avoid insulting the owner or broker, regardless of the property's condition.Keep in mind that investing in real estate is like solving a puzzle—you need all the pieces to see the big picture.

Check with a tax professional, but if you have lived in the home for 2 of the previous 5 years, you may not owe any capital gains tax, and so a 1031 is irrelevant.If you didn't you may want to wait.If you do go ahead, read about 'mortgage boot'.

If that is you, then a regular homeowners is the probably the way to go.  

I'm also looking for some future investment properties so I'm always keeping my eyes open.As I said, I am new to the area, so check out with a Realtor (one of the guys here on BP of course :-).....I see a lot of opportunities just West of Surprise.