But Rich Dad definitely opened my eyes and gave me the "ah ha" moment when a light bulb seemed to come on and changed my philosophy on jobs/investment etc.jeff

Good Morning BP,About 2 years a light bulb clicked for me.

Always walk in the light :-)

Sometimes you claimed a lot of repairs on your 2014 return but not your 2015 return so showing a 2015 return will allow your loan approval to be shown in the best light to an underwriter.Since its now 10.25.16 and we're 10 days past the corporate return filing period of extensions I would assume you have your 2015 returns.If the income is good you can use that income, if not there are ways to document the use of the other income method of 75% of gross - PITIA if you did substantial repairs to your properties upon purchase or if the tax returns were not an accurate depiction of actual income, whichever method is best from a qualification stand point.

I'm a writer and artist (painter of landscapes as well as walls.) 

Personally, I would go with the laminate if it is a light color.

Can anyone shed some light for me on how to use notes in real estate investing?

Rolling countryside, prairie and amazing homes, with big square footage, hand-set landscaping, tidy driveways, swimming pools and fences....and even a country golf course - but driving there is so beautiful you remember you can relax.

I have used them as a renter before but it was just for the free light bulbs, had no idea they had 0% loan programs.

Also, its a changing landscape, so keep asking.