From all points of view, its design flaw is that it will crash every so often.

To make it fair, this penalty applies only to the first year of tenancy, though you can make it regardless how long they're there.

The exact conditions required for a residence to be habitable vary by state, but often include an operable heating source during cold weather. 

It is probably a good idea to look at one of each kind, so you can tell them apart while shopping.If you think that any of the windows have been leaking (often around the bottom), you might be prepared to replace rotten framing after you take the old window out. 

how often do you talk (specific days/times)?

Once you're deemed credit worthy by lenders you can start using leverage which needs to be used VERY carefully but is also extremely powerful.I personally do NOT recommend that someone with a trades or self employment 'life track' as you are describing is best suited to buy a first house with cash, and for instance use your time to fix it up.Few reasons here:Firstly, often the kinds of 'cash deals' available are ones that can to generalize tend to be more cash flow type properties (as opposed to equity properties). 

It's not rented as often, but when it's rented it brings in more money than a 2 or 3 bedroom.

Still I would advise as part of tenant proofing your property to limit installing anything unnecessary that can break.

Often that requires going out of state.A lot of folks I know are now getting into education and courses.

if it was just based on the numbers,  I would.But I would not make that decision just based on the number, I would consider the neighborhood, the school district if it matters, the type of tenant I would get, the condition of the house, etc?