Since lender fees can vary widely from one lender to another, APR makes it easier for borrowers to determine the true cost of one loan versus another when all lender fees are reflecting in the calculation.

Under 4 units uses the comparable sales approach versus the income cap rate.What some do in these hard to cash flow areas is buy a rehab that is vacant and put money into and the rent out and increase the value.

Roof and HVAC are two of the bigger ticket itmes you want to look at, as well as what utiliies teh landlord versus tenants are responsible for . 

Start by looking at your current personal financial statement with assets versus liquidity.

My thought is I will have double the repair/vacancy every month with two properties which can support each other in the event there is a large repair/replacement versus just one property. 

Ed,Welcome to the community, yes learning by doing is the best method to me but it is costly, but you are learning versus throwing money at another product pitch.For your Chandler property have you considered a refi (get off the hard $) and then option it  with a wrap, this way you can have the house sold (in the future), and possibly collect a sizable down payment and have the tenant buyer make the mortgage payments (all set up through an escrow co.)

My lease I think sets an organized professional tone on the management of my properties with the reward of several of my tenants staying years, versus a few months.     

Does anyone have any experience (maintenance, cost of purchase, damage) for choosing curtains over mini-blinds?JCPenny has a 30% sale until 10/1 (online only here). I am concerned about price, but if curtains turn out...

James everything is negotiable versus the services you are getting.

You get to see other properties with similar characteristics and base your rent on how much better (or worse) your property is versus a comp house.