Here is a little more info in response to your questions:Why am I buying and what am I trying to achieve?  

Return is very important, but you can't have make a return on your money if you can't achieve positive cash flow.

Maintain high productivity with minimal supervision and achieve deadlines without being micro-managed.

My ultimate goal is to be able to get enough cash flow in to replace mine or my wife's income and I will not rest until I have achieve that :)  I have been bringing myself up to speed on REI, strategies, and networking using BP, local REI group, Podcats, etc.Feel free to connect with me for questions, investment opportunities, and tips & advice or even for IT questions.

I'm fortunate to have been able to achieve some of my major life goals (at 31!).

I am no expert but I suggest that you write down the following:What do you want to achieve with the business? 

Most of my financing will most likely be achieved through savings, re-fi on my current properties, and cash due from seller on purchase deals. 

You will need a team of professionals to support you in achieving your goals.

@Jeff Pollack I'm researching the Bay Area market and was wondering what your opinion is on typical rehab costs per square foot and what ARV discounts are achievable and considered a good deal?

The world of REI is a great place to achieve your goal of being financially free!