I am looking to begin investing in real estate and trying to create some form of passive income for my family.

As long as the rental income covers your rehab and financing costs, you're good to go!

Let's chat about what is your net income?

From most of the deals I have seen, a lot of people in Oregon are BRRRRing and can buy deals undervalued and rent them out with solid rental income. 

Do I have to claim the down payment as income since it was used to pay back a loan?

This can be appealing to investors seeking passive income without the responsibilities of active property management.2.

The other considerations noted by other posters are valid, but when you weigh them against the high risk of extended vacancy, ending at the beginning of winter is to be avoided at all costs.  2 months of added vacancy is a 16.6% loss to annual income. 

What’s the typical income in the area?

I have a prospective tenant that filled out an application.However I need some advice on qualifying this individual.The current rent is 3600The applicant is a family The Spouse doesnt work The main applicant gross W2 income is around $10000 monthThe monthly net income is $5700No car loan's No credit cards balancesThey pay $800 month on a personal loan.Since a rent check is written after net income is received.

I assume its to make higher income ?