Tenants aren’t generally motivated to pay on time unless there’s a financial incentive to do so.

I believe it still has to be in a savings type account, and there aren't going to be any of those with interest above a couple of percent.

Repairs aren't super urgent, will use cash flow to slowly replace windows and make other minor repairs.

I will have to say that "vacant units" aren't terribly common around here.

These are the tough critical questions that you need to know the answers to BEFORE you even go under contract for that first property.If your loan officer and realtor aren't working through that same thought process with you, then you're working with the wrong people.

The quantity of cash matters for financing as an owner-occupied property will require far less cash out of pocket than an investment property.

I'm also extremely skeptical if they aren't interested in me and my performance/experience or the deal, but focused primarily on receiving their upfront fee.

There are exceptions of course, but it generally helps to limit the number of deals I am analyzing so the options aren’t overwhelming.

You will never be 100% prepared but you will reach a point where you know you are ready to start buying, which it sounds like right now you aren't.

People with money who aren't investors or lenders are always thrilled with a 10% return.