I thought of becoming an engineer like my dad, but I hated Calculus; I thought about architecture, but I wasn't creative; I also thought of becoming a doctor, but I don't want to stay in school for 10+ years.

Irrespective of political-calculus, it would seem anyone wanting a job will prove they are hard working as fast as possible.According to the numbers, she did not.

Calculus and the only thing that I have under my belt as far as management is concerned is around 1.5 years as a manager in the food industry. 

Obviously, the people who already have money invested will have a different calculus in mind, but I'm hoping to find a good deal or two over the coming months. 

Pretty sure he will or already is taking calculus and trigonometry.

I wonder if somehow a property tax credit to houses built with more square footage off of ground level or by some calculus that benefits the use of levels would move us away from ranches somewhat.

Again not saying it can't be done, but you are basically taking an advance course in Calculus and you haven't even taken Algebra yet.  

If you have taken calculus, go study engineering.I would recommend electrical, computer or mechanical

Erik, if I can ask you one more question: knowing this condo is partially for personal use (say 40% of the time), would that change your calculus on down payment percentage?

My calculus is that in a market dip these satellite locations get absolutely hammered valuation wise and I worry rents would drop below cash flow.The one industry town is not as subject to price run up from my frothy market so might stay good in a dip... unless of coarse the state shut the jail down or began furloughing workers.I have decided I don’t yet have the balls or experience to brrrr in a location I can not drive to on the week end so am pretty limited on locations that meet the numbers.