If I were to sock away 20% for expenses, that gives me a small NOI, and the equity would be sitting in the house which really doesn't get me anywhere.The Refi would bump up my mortgage and I'd need to hold on to about 5K for an emergency fund, but if I put about 10K into remodeling, I can potentially break-even by charging more in rent.

What you want to know is what is the LTV or some use LTC, how many points do they charge, any other fees, and term of the loan, etc.

I know I need cash for reserves for bigger, unexpected events which is why I'm saving money and doing wholesaling now as well.

Many sales techniques are first born and tried within the insurance industry.Insurance sales will also be great at teaching you how to deal with all types of people.The added benefit, insurance sales will expose you to possible real estate investments or possible partners.One of my real estate investment partners' primary business was as a life insurance salesman.You will also be in charge of your time.You may find the book "Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive" a very good read.

I attended a real estate investing informational session about a month ago and they charged over $2900 to attend a 3 day workshop.

This business plan allowed a rent increase of more than double the rent charged by the former owner.I had a marketing plan that understood the lifestyle and desires of the target market.

Do you think I could charge more for rent with those add-ons?

You're in charge, not the tenant.

It's in conjunction with the government so likely .gov.Additionally it usually charges a small fee to search and certify.

I believe they charge first months rent, but market and do background checks on the potential tenants.