To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.

To readily obtain the highest end tenant I desire, it’s imperative that my properties have the following characteristics1.

@Robert Gorra - I've had a similar experience where I've had a really hard time with getting GC's to even give me an estimate, and the few that have have been way overpriced (ie, they want me to put in $20k of cabinets in a budget flip) or have had their prices go up by about 40% and still not give me a firm price when I try to nail down the scope of work.

The two-family property now has better curb appeal and the rental units are much more desirable, which has helped me increase my rental income.

Yep - My firm can do this for rate-term refinances and/or acquisitions, with stipulations (specifically for 85% LTV): Min DSCR of 1.25x+, Min FICO of 720+, SFRs.

I'm still in the process of growing my portfolio, but have heard others 1031 all their smaller properties into a larger building and have a property management company manage, OR, set up a seller financing deal with another buyer that gives you the cash flow you desire. 

How do you stand out as a desireable unit in a town that is saturated with many of the same cookie cutter condo 2b 2ba.  

@Enrique Toledo  If the seller is firm at 10% down, you can always get a personal loan for that 10%. 

Its great that you have saved some money and have a desire but investing involves a risk of loss.

To thrive in real estate investing, you must maintain a firm grip on your finances.