Some useful resources I have come across thus far:Cromford Report - Phoenix area (overall real estate market, specific for PHX area)bls.gov (economic information in general)http://www.city-data.com/ (more economic/general information)www.trulia.com (crime, schools, etc.)Are there paid sites/reports that can be found to compare overall markets bullet by bullet for a period of time and over time?

Free or discounted rent is not much of an incentive (compared to SoCal where rents are significantly higher) out here because the demands exceed the value of the rent. 

One of my favorite books that forces you to start with the end in mind and weigh the cost/reward of every decision is a book called Lifeonaire by Shaun McCloskey and Steve Cook.

The fact that you have to pay two sets of closing costs is relatively minor compared to those things.

Either option depends on mostly one factor.....does it make sense to buy the lot and pay the costs of new construction, compared to what the market price for the duplex in good shape is.  

When we flipped the switch and decided to grow, we changed from the mentality of "stay small and keep it all" to "risk it all and reap the reward".  

Rather, you need to convince her you understand the risks and possible rewards and that those balance out in your favor. 

@Matt K. yeah I guess rents don’t scale as much percentage wise compared to prices...it’s crazy that I’m getting $3,000 for 3/1s (800 sq ft)  in deep East Oakland.

It's not a hobby for me its a marketing tool and also rewarding by helping others and getting help as well.

They are really tiny compared to other Banks that's why you have to have a local relationship with them to get such good loans.