Is there some sort of universal rule of thumb or is it something understood through experience?

To even invest in a hedge fund you need to be an accredited investor.

I have a bachelor's degree in Economics from Colorado State University which I have not used at all in my career choices.

I know where i live they are pushing for more year round programs (Purdue University plug!!

There's a lot I don't know about investing, but the rehab work is pretty familiar and comfortable.I took a handful of real estate classes in college (Brigham Young University), and I've have since known that real estate would be my end game and retirement plan.Mid-term, I'm interested in buy-and-holds, but Step 1 for us is our first home, for which I'm contemplating one of three strategies:SFH, converting the basement into an accessory apartment.

My current niche is areas that people will not buy because they would will not stay there long term nor do they want to voluntarily come back (small town America with university and/or military presence).My tenants want a home not an apartment.

The new JOBS act very slightly relaxes the advertising restrictions (advertising allowed, but if you do you can only accept accredited investors), but does not change any other requirements.

Specifically, I would like to offer the general (accredited) public an opportunity to lend me money to refinance my existing mortgages.

I'm asking because I live in an area with a major university, but looking at how myself and my friends were... i'm hesitant to target them as a potential tenant stream.

The JOBS act changes allow you to advertise but then you're limited to accredited investors only.