For background this is my first investment and I own the property personally not with an LLC or anything of that nature. 

Hey @Kyle Kline, these are all great questions to ask and ultimately it will be personal preference. 

I personally would put down 20 percent and keep the rest of my cash, even if it meant I wasn't "making money" in the beginning.

When you get them on the phone setup a time to do a zoom call, see how they do business, who the connections are they have, and if you get to know them through those conversations and feel good go meet them in person.

However, the person you spoke with has a good point.

If anyone is interested I have a contact person who can provide more information. 

Not sure if personal info is allowed here but look up nerdtech on youtube for some details on how it works.

@Grant Vincent Personally, I prefer to stay at a place that's 100% wood inside, no drywall and no paint, because I want it to be as dissimilar to home as possible.

There will always be more risk with something vacant, you're probably going to be counting on one person as your "eyes" on the project (or at least for "security", overall)- and the more hands on/ closer they live / able to visit site frequently, the better. whether that is your gc, a project or property manager, or your handyman/even yard maintenance guy, neighboring teenager, or whoever- this person is key

If I made any substantial additions to it, I would be happy to share it with the community and give credit to the person who made the original.