However, my California RE mind sees the prices vs rents and am bewildered by such statements.As of now, these are my desires in properties:a house or townhome built after 2000 - I prefer after 2003 turnkey condition MOST PREFERABLE, but not necessarily a requirement at least a 3+2 neighborhood well kept and not too much crime $50-$100K, short sales are acceptable Close to transportation and/or the fwy Relatively close to downtown and the airport (10-20 min when there is no traffic)Seeking cashflow, appreciation much lesser priorityFor rent of 800, the PP cannot be exceed 60kFor each additional $100 of rent, the max PP can only increase by about $12.5k.If you see immediate issues with these desires, PM me so that we can talk about it offline.

Ss is a great long term  business to add to your portfolio in addition to single family.

We have an additional million dollars for about $200 per year and that covers our flip houses, etc (protection against being sued). 

In addition to SFR's, they have an inventory of condos right now that seem interesting.

I also require they get renter's insurance with a minimum of liability amount of $200,000 and I am listed as an additional insured.

HELOC can free up the additional 10-15%, but comes with a price (fees, higher rate, higher risk).It may take a while to save another down payment on annual positive cash flow from 1 property, depending on your numbers.  

If I understand the little I have read about the process, this is how it works:A regular lease is signed, just as for any rental, and in addition to that, a purchase option.

HelloI am looking for a general contractor for a 2nd floor addition on a ranch i just recently purchased for a flip.It would would be about 1000sf master bed/bath, 2 beds, 1 bath and a laundry room.I would also want to remodel extiour..I do not have any plans.I am in the north suburbs park ridge.Thanks jeff

There are a few additional research tools that I use that may not be as well know that I thought I'd share. 

@Ryan Wright  When banks calculate your DTI ratio, they include the additional debt you will be taking on.