I also know people who are currently doing this.

I personally think it's easier to get a general contractor's license (especially here in Chicago - it's almost sad how easy it is), but that just means there are a lot of bad contractors.Almost all states require architects to take a state licensing exam and need to have a bachelors degree in similar field to even take the test.I found for me, if I can just find people who are really good at what they do (and enjoy it) I can let them do that and I can just focus on finding deals and building the team.  

.- One investor said for their property sourcing, they are touching people 80-90 times before they buy. - All lead gen is 90 days out of activity before hits happen.- There are cost segmenting services that let you do cost segmentation for $450.- You can’t monitor what you can’t measure. - Asset management is building client feedback into customization of investment strategy.

She has been in this type of industry for a while as well as knows people that have turned properties into assisted living homes. 

It seems the people getting loans with lower down payments etc. are ppl with experience and a reputation or relationship with these lenders?  

Meaning get to know the person first, some people will try to swindle you, some people will try to bully you, some people would try to file lawsuits against you when the civil phone call would work.

Some people we deal with really suck. lol

I see the people on craigslist in Oneonta making a KILLING by the room.

People have already provided great input, so I will touch on your comment your wife said.You really need to sit down with her and explain the short term and long term goals.

Ask your people the lifespan of the old stuff and then go from there.