Are there any Internet tools in particular that real estate investors like to use regarding analyzing markets and sub-markets such as population, employment, economic diversity, ect?

@Kristy Farmer sounds like you have a goal and making great progress.

Now you also want to assess the security of your investment.Following my example above, maybe the $200k property is located in a great area which will attract great tenants and support potential appreciation.

If you have $30,000 at 20, you'll be able to progress faster than me.

Start a diary on the forum and keep us all up to date on your progress!

Sorry I can't address your question just yet, I am still studying loan types myself.Keep me posted of your progress, and best of success to your and your husband,Marylin

If damage was caused by the tenant, you can start assessing for damages as soon as you find them.Ignoring tenant repair requests is not a sound business practice, it could also backfire on you and cause a delay in the eviction process.

Chad Clement , don't rely on pictures, go see the unit or have your agent visit it and send you pics and their assessment of what it is worth.Is this for buy and hold?

Other Con, special assessments.

@Patrick Hicks I have one condo in my portfolio and I ended up solving a similar problem by joining the board, unfortunately.I can't imagine why the Board would go through the trouble of a special assessment for an extra $150 per unit.