I have strong credit (760) though my wife has a limited credit history as she is now immigrating to the country.  

I strongly believe on prospecting for business on the phone. 

I would strongly recommend it before you do anything.

 I'm in the panhandle of Florida where the rental and sales markets are both very strong.

That was why I felt strong armed into using her husband as a contractor. 

But honestly I hardly think strong cash flow is the most important thing about the first deal.

Until some of those things change, I believe a strong rental market will be the norm.

My point is that the buyers, in Santa Clara County,  for primary residences are still very financially strong. 

It used to be that you needed to wait 3 years but now you can put down 3% to 5% on a conventional loan.You can also take advantage of an FHA loan if the numbers make sense.I would strongly recommend getting in touch with a broker or loan officer so that they can help and guide you through the process.I hope this helps and have a great day.

I strongly advise against buying condos for investment purposes (though like anything, they will work if bought cheap enough), b/c of the HOA fees and lack of control over your property.