I don't think I would use it much, but it would help to calibrate leverage some.

Is there a "typical" CAP rate that every market re-calibrates to?

One extra thing, I was telling myself is to calibrate on how I see human behavior.

I realized that my number crunching was not calibrated to more real market conditions so I'm continuing to refine my approach.Future GoalsLooking to further expand my knowledge base and evaluating other strategies in the future.

I agree, it is the place to start learning real estate.There is just no doubt about it, you need a good BS Meter to invest in real estate, you can't calibrate your BS Meter without understanding the basics of real estate.Starting out, who you listen to and what you learn is the difference between success and disaster. 

It doesn't bother me that I missed this one because I erred in the right direction (low), I just want to get myself properly calibrated so I can make "intelligent" low offers.

Thanks for sharing this article.The author has cherry picked the pieces that negatively supports his line of reasoning.Additionally, there is no guarantee that everyone who invested in stocks would see a positive return as quoted.So, it depends on the drive, plan, creativity and mindset of the individual.It's a known fact that most of the millionaires made/secured their wealth through RE and not the stock market.Looking back at the author's path to home ownership, he could have re-calibrated his steps and do creative REI investing to make himself whole.The author's story sounds like a good one to tell, generate laughter and lively conversations, but, I am not convinced with his line of reasoning about home ownership.

The only work you will have to do is calibrate for the materials/labor in your local market.

Even though I work with a property management company, I like lower maintenance tenants that are high quality and calibre.  

Assuming your girlfriend will be living with you, you'll want to calibrate on what's "liveable" for you and for her!