So, right now, I'm looking to find a mentor, learn all I can and have a particular interest in wholesaling, tax delinquent properties and mobile home properties (Warren Buffett is brilliant)!).

I agree with your concern about flanking in the basement from the dog bark.

It's sustainable business.As far as I am concerned there will always be a place for both good clean rentals in nice buildings and first time or the downsize priced property.

Primarily I am concerned about if I choose to buy and hold, how do I predict an upward growth trajectory in regard to the construction quality and thus the "word around the campfire" about the subdivision.

Robert,If the objective of your purchase is cash-flow, then appreciation matters little - don't get me wrong, it's still nice, but the success of the investment does not rely upon it.Matching your product - in your case, single-story (ranch style) duplexes - to your clientele ({nearly} retired, aging tenants who do not wish to contend with stairs as they grow old or those with mobility issues), whether done explicitly or intuitively, is the key to low turnover.We are considering a multi-family unit which is comprised of 25-row houses in a single story garden home format as it has an appeal to our aging population.

Mobile home notes would be a good start at that price point.

Therefore, I would be adding to the portfolio equity in the long term while still increasing my cash flow.My only concern was using up the equity.

The market is strong, good job outlook, and sound economy.My concern is that with so many other units in the complex that I lose control of the condition and pricing on those competing units.

Well, the purchase agreement has now been cancelled and I've lost it due to the incompetance of the bank and their slowness, had they let me know sooner of their concerns I could have found new financing.

My concern is that by buying the investment house first, I ruin my chances at getting a less than 20% down loan on the 2nd home, where I'd really plan to settle in.