Ideally your FICO is > 740.I know what you mean, but they're still underwriting the property, as it has to meet guidelines for condition/habitability, appraisal amount, etc.

I deal in lower end homes but "as a rule of thumb"...i hate that phrase...I charge half of the rent as my deposit. 

Also it is my way of making a positive different in someone life by setting an example by providing good housing, to being an employer, and proving the good guys can win outside of a fictitious movie role.

Granted, I would expected the $/pad to be lower as ideally I don't own the home and my taxes, maintenance etc. are limited to the dirt.Thanks for your thoughts.

Ideally I'd like to find someone who have worked with investor before and can complete a quality job on time and priced reasonably.Can someone recommend one for me?

.- Short term and student leases - obviously they aren't ideal but you can charge a nice premium. 

Ideally, I'd like to own several rental properties.

Knowledge/Experience Ideally you should have at least 2 out of the 3, but could get away with 1 out of 3. 

So, ideally, a year from now, I would be able to afford to purchase a second property with a conventional 20% down mortgage, if all goes to plan.  

I deal with a small independent bank.