Personally, I really like the idea of owning the first one as a safety net while financing the other 3.

Some title companies are making it policy to not close any wrap transactions.

Also make sure the borrower is insured himself and you being put on the policy as an interested party (if I’m stating that right) in case something unforeseen happens to the borrower, you would receive a check from the insured’s insurance company 

When inquiring about a specific property that is in need of major "cosmetic" repairs/ replacement:*drywall damage*holes in interior doors*tile missing in shower*disgusting rugs*peeling vinyl flooringAll things we have experience in replacing, however would this affect the possibility of getting a conventional or VA loan due to the clause "No major issues affecting safety, soundness, and habitability"?

A good tax accountant will save you more than the cost of their service.Insurance Agent—Insurance is a must, and as an investor, you will probably be dealing with a lot of insurance policies.

@Ahmad D. and @Larry Morehouse1) If you have a residential residential property, then you want a Landlord specific insurance policy.  

The owners and managers also allegedly implemented an unreasonably restrictive two-person-per-bedroom occupancy policy at two rental properties.

Because my policy expires in August and they are making it match.OMG !!!

In some ways I think being local feels like a safety fall back, but in reality anything that comes up locally I also have contractors that can handle emergencies. 

Part 1 of 5: What is a Deductible Buy-Down ProgramDeductible Buy-Down programs are insurance policies a business/real estate investor can implement in their protection plan to lower the amount of deductible they have to pay when there is a claim made.These are policies which are in addition to the normal coverage plan (property, liability, auto, umbrella, cyber, etc.)Part 2 of 5: How Buy-Down Programs WorkThey are one of many ways a person/business can implement alternative insurance protection.Buy-Downs are added to protection plans to lower out of pocket expenses for the insured at the time of loss (a claim)Example of how a Buy-Down program works:You have a commercial property portfolio.Its insurance policy has a deductible and a premium.