I hope to glean from others experience as well possibly be able to give some helpful thoughts from time to time on areas that I have gained knowledge through my property management and my new endeavor as a realtor and investing.

It's tricky to finance non US citizens but possible through an LLC.    

response : yes with possible arvcoc -> myself yes, for the amount of cash you are dishing out ( only my 2 cents - prefer at least 10% - 12% )quick glance : do you have snow removal  in your number or part of property management percentage ?

I have spent some time trying to understand how to determine my true cost of capital but not sure if I am doing it correctly.This is the calculation I am doing, if possible please let me know if this is right or I just made up my own magic formula:Loan for $225,000 @ 3.25% = $10,562.50Paying PMI @ $155.78/month x 12months = $1869.36$10,562.50 + $1869.36 = $12,431.86$12,431.86/$225,000 = 5.525%Also, I appreciate the wisdom in regards to financial ratios, carrying costs, etc etc.

I have always used 15-30 year fixed rates, but I have been reading about ARM's as a possibly better option depending on how long you intend to have the financing or the property.

It would be nice to find a mentor if possible, especially if our personalities mesh well. 

@Brian PleshekStart interviewing and vetting possible stand-ins for you while you are on vacation.

"- little recycling symbol that says next to it "recyclable"------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------My business partner is a realtor, so I want to mention our license number to possibly reassure people that we're official. 

Please contact me and we can discuss a possible partnership.

There's also that possibility.