However, viewing it from my side a year ago - I was taking into consideration that I paid retail for my first 2 rental properties so this was putting me ahead of the game when compared relative to those (as an aside, those retail purchases have worked out just fine for me).

I would be more then happy to answer your questions, but not 30 emails at a time....LOL How does it compare to other types of investing?

It is about comparable to my second year in R.E.

.$1050 per month income X 12 months = $12,600 annual Gross Rental IncomeGRM=$40,000/$12,600=3.2If $52,000 is the contract priceGRM=$52,000/$12,600=4.1 (sorry not 4.2)GRM is based on your local market and is determined by comps (comparable sales in the same area).Again a 4.1 GRM is extremely strong and will most likely be lower than your area's comps.

Look up the county records for comparables/ liens/ easements on the prpoerty.Good luck.

.($2200-$2500 range)However, when I checked with large banks, just filling up the application on line, with the same data , result of payment amount is even twice as much comparing with some of the estimates from places I called.Please tell me; are these small companies crooks ?

5.How many days did it take you to sell the average home and how does that compare to the overall market?

I'm curious how the prices of specialty shop like the one you mention compare to ordering a granite top at a big box store (Lowe's, Home Depot, etc).

You are comparing apples to oranges.

Every descision you make in the first several deals should be checked and double checked with reliable sources.