And with much more in commonality with starting and running say a restaurant. 

Quote from @Erick Pena: A "good" rental property is one that covers all expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, property management fees, and any other costs) and still leave a surplus (commonly referred to as cash flow).Calculate cash flow as: Cash Flow = Rental Income − Operating Expenses − DebtThere's much more to it, but that's the basic idea.

Is it common to purchase a home with other debt?

Yours is a common scenario.

Hey @Sara Valentine,It sounds like this is a common problem with many other STR and MTR operators locally and across the country. 

Sales comparison A common method that compares the property to similar properties nearby and their relative prices.

Do you think it's common for a tenant to sue for an amount greater than insurance can cover, then take your property or even your personal assets? 

Is it common for developers to use subsidies to cover 100% of the construction costs without needing to obtaining debt or raising equity?

There would potentially be some weight issues with the 2nd+ floors of some shopping malls, depending on what the potential tenant wants to store in the upstairs unit. 

Hello, we have a. apartment complex in LA County and want to install security cameras in the common areas.