The Seattle-Tacoma market isn't great for cash flow day one, assuming you're trying to acquire for 25% down.

When challenges arise, it can be hard to remember how many AMAZING moments there are in Real Estate.

Have you looked into Ohio markets such as Columbus?

I am new to the BP forums, and am looking for ways to invest in real estate.

Pick a target market (only 1-2 markets when you're starting out). 

I want to help my son get off to a great start but I am also concerned what cosigning will do to my debt to ratio and I have been circling real estate investing for the last few years, ready to take a shot now.

As a Property Manager in a market where many owners choose to manage on their own, I've seen several examples of owners losing their homes or properties because their tenants did not pay or caused excess damage.

That said, should we put our real estate investment in my name or hers?

If the cosigner/guarantor owns real estate for example, any unpaid judgement will become a lien on that property and raise the odds significantly for eventually getting paid.If the cosigner/guarantor doesn't have assets like real estate to go after all they are offering you is a promise and last I checked you can't cash a promise!

Beyond that there are hard money lenders who charge higher rates to take on more risk... but they again start by looking at you, your skill set, and your previous experience in both managing your credit, as well as your real estate investment history.