I've seen this criticism of Columbus a couple times on here (that it is suspect because someone considers it part of the Rust Belt).

This is where, when you go to log in, besides a password you also need to put in a code they text to your phone, or (even better) a code you get from an app (like Google Authenticator or Authy).It's hard to believe, but there are still banks that don't support this, and besides using unique passwords for each account (do NOT reuse passwords) it's a critical security component in my opinion.

Like i said, im new at this, and am just throwing my ideas out there, if they sound useless, please be critical...that why i'm here, to learn.

I'm sure they have a lot of critics though.The average length of homeownership is nowhere near 30 or 40 years so most people never end up paying off their homes as a result.If your goal is cash flow today, then a 40 year loan with a 10 year IO period is about as good as you can get.If your goal is to have a paid off property in retirement, you should obviously lean towards a fully amortized loan on as short of a term as possible.

Is there anything critical to focus on or consider?

Examples to the contrary, I just cannot imagine a scenario where my inability to get critical resources would outstrip my existing stock on hand.

Notice is critical.2. 

That’s why creating a Inspection Checklist is a critical part of moving in.

It becomes a representation made by a borrower.Lenders have read the book, they know where the fudge is, they can see through embellishments, especially in RE valuations unless an appraisal is supporting claims, and it's rarely critical to see equity in other properties, if it gets to that point, it's not a very strong application.Your best approach is not to dress up statements.

No bad areas.I know this seems counterintuitive but it's critical as tons of these props maybe 90% are in bad areas.