I just finished my master's degree in food science, and currently work as a food science professional.

Landlord-Tenant law varies by jurisdiction.

Real Estate laws vary by state, but it is typically (if not always) illegal to market property that is not yours or that you do not have an equitable interest in.

(This may vary due to your location but):I happen to like Goodman and Amana hi-efficiency furnaces (95-97% - natural gas) and so does my HVAC guy Dave, those are our go to lines.What furnace do you use and why?

The problem is I don't have a college degree, or a background in finance.

I interviewed loan officers at several banks of varying sizes in Des Moines within the last 1-2 months.

I am sure its like that to a degree in most markets...

Rates vary but are usually much lower (we usually get from 8-9% with no points).You want to have built the relationship beforehand, but usually you don't bring a deal to either until it's under contract.

Keep in mind Decatur encompasses City of Decatur (30030) which is separate from unincorporated DeKalb 30030 + Decatur includes 30032, 30033 and 30034, all very different Decaturs with varying degrees of appreciation and definitely price points

The appetite for risk is varied from investor to investor, of course.