Because I only just started working, I figure that prioritizing cash flow will be safer than relying on appreciation for a property that barely cash flows. 

This is how I mentally and actually protect against downside risk.

Not a single late rent payment yet.Also, again, I see a lot of broke mentality in here.

I’m so excited for my first BRRRR in the near future, and mentally ready to learn by making mistakes. 

Any thoughts from other newbies or experienced investors on how to prioritize these two important pieces?

Numbers wise, it seems to make sense and my rent would cover the morgage and the heloc payments, but I am still struggling with the mental side of things.

Hello,I am two weeks out from closing on a new property in ColoradoMy real estate agent just called me and told me that the sellers wanted to disclose something fairly odd...Apparently, one of the sellers is a heavy Adderall user (a schedule 2 prescription drug similar to meth).She stays awake for 2-3 days at a time and gets extremely paranoid and is currently convinced there are bugs all over the house and someone is hacking her computer.My worry is, that much like someone who is addicted to opiates may turn to heroin when they run out of a prescription, that someone addicted to amphetamines would turn to meth.When I did my due diligence, I was unaware of the mental state of the owner, but I did not notice any bad smells, and the place was fairly clean, so I don't think she was cooking meth.My due diligence period is over, so I don't think I can get a professional to to a test, but I have seen that there are test kits online.

The sample motivated seller questionnaire (and explanation paragraphs) on this page will equip you to avoid this common newbie mistake.If you're new to wholesaling or creative real estate investing, you can save yourself a whole lot of mental and financial anguish by asking a series of two or three questions to help you decide whether to deal with a property seller or not.The information you gather from a well crafted motivated seller questionnaire can also help you determine whether the property in question is worth investigating further, regardless of what you find about the urgency of the seller's situation.The section below will take you through a shortened sample form and discuss each section in detail.Contact Information Full NameHome PhoneWork Phone (maybe fax also)AddressSpouse Name (if any)Email AddressProperty Address (For Sale)How did you find us?

Ever since I picked my first book "Think and Grow Rich", My mentality has shifted towards becoming financially free and independent. 

Let the handyman know your situation have them go through and prioritize any repairs they think are needed or things that could prevent future problems.