It is probably not the easiest book for an entry level investor however the author does a good job at making it worth while for all investor levels.  

Or maybe it was a gift card to the gas station he uses.  

Not everybody is gifted with everything.That's why I'm looking on a partner I can trust.

Work hard.Save your money.Get an FHA loan.Unless you're a veteran, that would be the easiest way besides using private money.

That's probably the most hands off easiest way to do it.  

To tell what amps the service is the easiest way I know if is to look on the panel.  

If you are going to get money as a gift to pay for all\part of the down payment, best to transfer and age it in your account for at least 3 months, otherwise you'll need to provide all sorts of letters explaining where the money came from and that it is in fact a gift and not a loan.Lenders will look at your overall debt, credit cards, car loans, student loans, etc when deciding to approve your loan.

 Here are my two cents -  first of all, the absolute easiest way to get started investing in rental property is by living in your first rental property and buying it as an owner occupant...  

Don't punch a gift horse in the mouth.

Well....whether they gift the house to you guys or keep it in their names it keeps its original basis...so whatever they bought it for + cost of this renovation.