You can drive for dollars and target homes that seem distressed or abandoned to find off-market deals (or find an agent or wholesaler that will do that), be patient, and don't let your emotions get (too) involved. 

I feel as though I know exactly what I want out of a deal but not sure where to take that first step.Nonetheless, the emotions I'm experiencing almost ensures me that I'm moving in the right direction.I would love to hear the communities experiences, stories, and advice.Thanks,Deane

For arena/work surface footing, you want footing that is as versatile as possible, unless the show grounds cater predominantly to one particular discipline - for example, reiners and jumpers have different footing preferences so you'll want to plan accordingly.

The question is do you have a clear path for that money, the discipline to use it only for assets that will produce an income to pay off that debt or service the monthly payment.

One can also or should also take into account the emotional/mental and life style factors that may come into play too since everyone has different preferences on what they'd like to do with their free mind / time space.I think for some the 14 hours is more than acceptable however if a person was willing to trade that 14 hours and perhaps reduce it  down to 20-30 minutes of calls/emails per month by hirining a professional manager it may make sense as well depending on the cost.

This is especially true given the high price I expect to pay for the property, as I think appreciation will give me the best ROI.I prefer house-hacking to out-of-state because:1) I want to own the house I live inThis is a pure emotional thing.

I have had a lot of recent calls from tenants saying they have "emotional support dogs".

Certainly some have but I'm guessing its under 10%.I can't help but think that this thread really displays the book ends of emotions in investing, neither of which are the most healthy.

We need to learn how to negotiate and to not get out emotions involve in the deal.

The moment that you let your feelings and emotions effect your business decisions, its probably time to hire a property manager.