I have seen too many people leave a lot more $$ on the table due to their inexperience with markets (trying to save a few bucks).

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I'm wondering what "rule of thumbs" people use (knowing that every deal is unique).

This means getting a quality list, sending unique mailers and being consistent with your mailings.

There are other lending tricks that can avoid MI while bringing less than 20% to the table but I'm not an expert on this, I can point ya in the right direction to learn more if you are interested. 

I work full time as a teacher, have income from tutoring, and rental income.I am looking for an accountant that knows real estate taxes inside and out that can help me file this year's taxes and also advise me regarding my overall investment plan (loan payoff vs. saving for second home; acquiring another mortgage with my unique financial situation, etc).Any contact information would be greatly appreciated!

And if you happen to come across the unique situation we need as flippers then that'll be great too. 

If you have 5 partners each loaning you $15K and you pay them all back evenly.. you'll be left with zero profit (unless you're bringing money to the table as well). 

If you over pay now and then have to refinance in 5 years, you may have to bring cash to the closing table.  

I am in a rather unique situation of knowing a small group of people who is interested in investing in real estate, have money, but no time or wish to put in any work themselves.