I'm in a career field where I am likely to have multiple NCR assignments, and have many friends and colleagues there, so I should have some advantages finding quality tenants (possibly myself if I catch another assignment in the area).Budget: I'd prefer to keep it to a no down payment VA loan, which caps me around $680K, but I could put some additional down if i find a particularly good deal.Area: I'm targeting a SFM home  or townhouse in Arlington, Alexandria, or Falls Church (short commute to Pentagon and FT Belvoir), which I can rent easily to upper end military families or local professionals.

Hi Elvis, as a local resident and professional realtor, I caution you in regard to house hack depending where you want to live.

If you are currently not willing to pay 50%, then I strongly suggest that we can get the repair service guy (professional plumber) investigate and determine this issue.

It is there you can network with other investors and real estate professionals.

You have terms in the lease that are legally required to be followed by ALL parties and if you do not shift to a business owner mindset from your current "past home" you will not manage your business in a professional manner.  

You can get your deals done the correct way on BiggerPockets.3) Consider joining a real estate investment club in your area and "rub elbows" with local investors and other real estate professionals (attorneys, contractors, lenders, title reps, escrow agents, appraisers, etc.).

There are several experienced and well respected professionals here on the forum such as @Michael Plaks and @Nicholas Aiola.

If you ever have any questions about the local market, need any professional assistance, or would like to discuss you real estate goals, please do not hesitate to reach out.

They are very professional and work hard to find good, qualified tenants (even their tenants love them). 

Finally, consider joining a real estate investment club in your area and link up with other investors and real estate professionals (appraisers, title reps, escrow agents, etc.)We are happy to help you in any way we can, so you are not alone in your real estate ambition.Once again, congratulations, and I wish you the best in your real estate investing career!