Currently every property we are seeing just does not have enough ROI or cashflow, except in Baltimore.

I started in the Riviera Maya too but I'm mostly out, with the exception of Playa del Carmen, although I wouldn't invest more then.

There are always exceptions, but don't make the assumption that a contractor who will only provide their own materials is trying to rip you off, it might be a sign that they have pride and want to stand by their work. 

Its just like renting to anyone, except more paperwork.

Money Back claims are easy - except when you are asked for the money back then the excuses start.We bought into one that is well known and is actively soliciting new members several years ago and found it to be a total waste of money - generic material, generic advice and support that vanished when we did not see the results they claimed and asked for some additional assistance. 

Over the past few years, my wife and I have worked hard to improve our financial health—we’ve raised our credit scores above 800, paid off all debt except for our mortgage and student loans, and saved a fair amount.

I really wouldn't do anything different rehabbing/flipping late in the year, except maybe adjust my underwriting.

Honestly, the entire situation was a nightmare—except for one silver lining: meeting Melissa.

(except not firing the PM sooner, oh well..)I also was thinking like you originally, that I would just keep putting 20% down on each, but each purchase taught me a new thing, and each opportunity presented itself at the time and I had to be open to creative ways to purchase, since not every property will be a perfect fit for traditional financing. 

They may have exceptionally high interest rates and short repayment periods.Ongoing Costs to ConsiderReal estate investing can allow you to enjoy passive income from rental properties.