This requires an income that rises faster than inflation, or you will not have the additional dollars you will need to pay future inflated prices.What causes rents (and prices) to increase?

I have never sent a mailer out before and looking for suggestions anyone may have.

I would definitely suggest getting your husband on board, that can be crucial when finances get involved and risked. 

This gives additional reassurance that this specific 'fringe' region between Waldo and Marlborough is a sound area to invest IMO. particularly in the long term.Main issue with the Quads is price: they started at $550 asking in September of last year.

I'm open to any suggestions and/or different approaches too.  

Due to the appraisal, instead of the standard 20% down on an investment property, I was able to only put down 10% and get a second loan for the additional 10% down payment.

Hi Matt, whenever evaluating an MTR market I would suggest looking at Furnished Finder, Airbnb/VRBO (30+ day stays), and Zillow to try and see what other online listings are available. 

I started down this path and blew it all up after a few years as its way too expensive, way to complex and realistically did zero additional asset protection for me. 

My "guru" has shared some thoughts on that, but I'm interested in additional opinions.I'm not afraid of hard work, but I'd appreciate any thoughts on what I need to be prepared for if I head down this road, as well as opinions on the risks I'm signing up for.

I will suggest a conventional loan or an fha both to be owner-occupied - I will stay away from DRSC and commercial loans at this time due to the high rates.