get an FHA 3.5% down " an expert is some one who can see past the obvious path and helpIf you are going to open market , try to get referrals from your agent , contractor or any body who is in real estate business - Also keep in mind  that there are lot of lenders/brokers who change the terms at the last moment , so even if you hear what you want to hear initially - make sure you have references and a solid backup

Hello BP members,I'm a new investor looking for some solid advice on my first deal. 

He also tries to minimize waste when building and keeps building time low by using templated floor plans and each home is equipped to be 100% solar power reliant.

Some upgrades/ amenities work great in some markets but they might be a waste in others. 

Second, a place which may be my possible home in the next decade or so, thus should be in a desirable neighbourhood (Northshore, Rosedale, Hyde Park etc) with solid capital appreciation and decent rental yield (in interim before it's my home).

Pick a solid B-Class suburban area.

I have seen people getting 10 LLCs but not following rules. that would be waste of time and money. 

@David Smit On average, B type properties - solid middle/upper middle-class in good school districts will not cause your portfolio to suffer from losses.

I've been taking a real estate investment course available through my public library and the low rates of success for renters was presented as a way in which this is a solid investment strategy.

Sounds like a solid deal to me.