Check with your homeowner's insurance.

Remember also that the interest on the loan is taxed at ordinary income rates.So for example lets say you have 100k and were making 8% in the markets - 8k per year and say you are in top bracket, you will pay $1600 in taxes per year or netting 6400.Now lets say you did a loan and were at 5% you are earning $5k per year (actually less because principal is being paid down and some of money goes into essentially a 0% checking account).

I think it was some astounding estimate that in general, a significant degree of the US population lives check to check and will go into default of everything with almost any unexpected expense.

Check out some of my older posts on this subject.

@Neal Patel check out PadSplit and Bungalow

I would check out some local meetups and meet with as many investors as I can.

Consulting a real estate attorney is highly recommended, especially for complex transactions or if the standard forms need modifications.

I've heard that 2.5% is the industry standard, but I don't want any Realtor to steer their clients elsewhere due to the commission being too low.

Now of course for a new build, or a major remodel, you will have to get an Architect and an Engineered set of plans, and submit plans to the City and a Plan Check company.

You may also want to check your landlord tenant laws in your state.