It's my understanding that not every lender may be knowledgeable enough to make the process for this type of loan easy on the buyer.

I also cannot shop around for seconds, or do any extra painting, etc..

Thanks everyone for your wealth of knowledge and willingness to share, have a great day!

Do a live classroom if you can....you can get some real world knowledge/practices, ask questions, network, etc.

If you gactor in that rents should have increased over 5 years you can use that to offset even more without cutting into cash flow.That being said, I have started to make extra monthly payments towards principal on the notes that will come up in the next 3 years for refi, which will bring the baloon amount down significantly.

I have little knowledge of the market in Hawaii (but am very jealous that you get to live there!)

There are several knowledgeable experts who are frequent contributors here. 

As you become more experienced and more knowledgeable, pass your knowledge on to those who are less experienced.  

Its all about your team and knowledge..

I am in search of a knowledgable attorney who understands fair lawn rent control ordinances.