Use the principles of the Book How to Win Friends and Influence People.

At first sight, my concern is that you were chasing the property like it was a big game hunt, and lost sight of the deal...I could be wrong. 

Then again, will this vastly improve the safety, sight lines, driveability, walk/bikeability of your street? 

Basically a way to hold yourselves accountable for what you need to do and keep your goals in sight. 

I have to admit a chuckled a bit when you mention tenants in Minnesota were stomping their feet about the AC not being cool enough.Remember the Pareto principle. 

Having said that, there are no steals and deals here...prices are not for the faint of heart but the ROI is solid due to rental (as well as housing) demand exceeding supply with no end in sight. 

If we remain elevated for the next 2-3 years you 2022 purchase will look really good in hind sight.

If you are unfamiliar with bookkeeping principles I would recommend getting a professional real estate bookkeeper to keep your books current and correct! 

At least $500 of that payment is principle paydown, not an expense.

The payment will increase due to interest rate, although I guess I could pay cash towards principle to get payment to where it needs to be.