I would recommend connecting with a real estate agent that can help ensure your property search will align with your goals - I use John Kepple (KW agent).- Peoria has a healthy employment base but is heavily reliant on Caterpillar and two large hospitals.- Rents seem to be increasing. 

If there are opportunities to purchase for under $5,000.00, I would expect the company I align with would disclose this.Amazing to me those opportunities exist. 

I FAILED to walk to the very back of the property and when I did...there it was...neatly aligned bee colonies!!!!

I feel as though I'm over-analyzing properties but I just want to make sure I can align as many factors as I can before we pull the trigger.

Sure, you could find some hard money lender, theoretically, but you have no track record.Look into achievable steps that align with your (realistic) goals.

I think she is just trying to align our expectations with reality because of what the seller’s specific demands are.

They just want the highest overall return possible so they can grow their money.Knowing both metrics allows every investor to evaluate their options and align their acquisitions with their investment objectives.

And that is if the stars align. 

You need to interview the bank as much as they interview you to make sure both of your goals and expertise align.

And certainly nothing wrong with sitting on the sidelines when the metrics don't align with your strategy.Only way to always be in the game is to have more than one strategy.