We are going through a mortgage company.No realator is involved.

Why bother with the added risk by accepting a tenant that is a concern before you even start.

If his business happens to run into trouble and he has an expensive lifestyle, he might be at a higher risk of not repaying the loan.Secondly, if you think it's ok because you have the cash to buy your toys, you might want to think again. 

There are lots of ways to learn more and get involved in the local real estate investor community in NOVA.

But without seeking the advice of those more experienced than I, I risk walking away from a good deal I'm just not knowledgeable enough to make work.Trust me, I'm not going to throw my money away!

There are lots of ways to learn more and get involved in the local real estate investor community in NOVA and DC.

Great to see you take the first and possibly most difficult step in real estate investment - reaching out ang getting involved!

Only problem is getting TOO involved and sucking time away from my real life. 

Paying down the balances on any cards to below 30% of the total limit makes you look like a more responsible person and a better (lower) loan risk. 

Some great ideas on lead generation, prospecting and education would be to join forums much like this one, and get involved with local networking clubs using www.meetups.com.