One, if they don't have time to spend with you and answer your questions in detail and discuss them, in my opinion, move on.

The lower the DP, the less you need to recover, and the faster you should be able to recover it.Equity's main role, is to accumulate through appreciation (not paydown...to slow, and too small),...and then cash out to move forward into larger property value. 

I am thinking I will start by targeting Arnold/Imperial and work out from there if necessary, probably west toward Murphy/High Ridge/House Springs before moving south.

The housing market is pretty crazy here with a ton of people moving here from out of state.

There is a lot that you don't know, but house hacking and managing the property yourself will give you that step, not leap, into property management where the mistakes you make will come with far smaller dollar signs and very valuable learning experiences.....and of course, you keep you hard earned rent in your pocket which will only help you moving forward.

Just make sure that the local zoning laws and HOA (if applicable) allow for this arrangement.Down Payment Terms: Spreading the $20k down payment over 6 months can ease the upfront financial burden, but ensure you have a clear agreement with the seller on this timeline and any penalties for delayed payments.Best of luck moving forward,KC 

Hello,My friend is moving out of state and I am looking to purchase their home.

Give move out instructions.Regards,Landlord

As you build your portfolio you can set up corporate entities etc.

Comfort with your decisions is essential for moving beyond analysis paralysis and taking action.