I recommend changing your business practice and doing the latter.  

Would you have recommendation of the best place to start rental properties? 

.: I recommend you put down enough to ensure the investment cash flows.

I am also needing to get my loan team dialed in...So, do you also have recommendations on national banks (obviously I'll check banks local to the deals I find), but would like to start with national banks who specialize in this space.

I recommend taking down smaller deals with your own / immediate family equity first to establish track record.

Does anyone have recommendations of a great home inspector to be used during the escrow period?

Our staff can now confidently utilize their services, fully understanding the cost benefits involved.This partnership has been a major improvement for us, and I highly recommend Sewer Cleaning Company to any fellow landlords or property managers in the Cleveland area.

Furthermore, I got to personally have conversations and ask questions to experienced investors like Sterling White, Brian Burke, Matt Faircloth, Brandon Turner, Brian Murray, and more.

Go for the desirable locations in the city and if you’re investing from out of state or country my recommendation would be to stick with properties that require minimal rehab. 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?