Naturally, I do not want to start my real estate career with long distance investments as there is a higher potential for conflict, especially as a newbie.

I would buy the primary traditionally, and feel comfortable covering that expense with your income, and then using the excess cash that you got as a gift, to start your investment career.

Hey @Michael Diaz, congrats on taking the next step in your investing career.

Learn while you earn.

Early in my career, I rented to two guys making $90,000 each in the oil field.

I know I want to grow my portfolio to replace my wife's earnings, so she doesn't have to work.

As an example, if you can earn 10% cash on cash return today or better from your cash flow, how would you deploy the equity if you sold to earn the same or more?

This has allowed me to progress in a very demanding career while expanding my multi family portfolio.

(only move in to mid to lower quality rentals) If they have bad credit, less than 3x the rent in income, criminal charges or new on the job that is entry level with no previous history of being in the industry or career- denialIt is preferred to have one person qualify on their own and be the financially responsible in these instances. 

I used to be in the 30 year fixed camp, but when I have looked at my seven year investing career, I realize that I have never held a loan for more than a few years.