I do understand the downsides of being an agent while being an investor, however, I think they can actually be quite complementary depending on your business structure.  

Plus, the down payment requirements are minimal, and often you get decent interest rates (note that the interest rates and discount points will vary by 203k lender, so it's important to make sure that you're getting a good deal on the loan).The downsides are that not all properties qualify, there are limits on the funding you can get and applying for the loan isn't easy.

My wife and investment partner is planning to get her real estate license, maybe if I get the inspector license, it could be a powerful combo - any insights are appreciated.On the downside, it appears Texas requires a pretty rigid apprenticeship program, need to be sponsored by a professional inspector and perform a lot of inspections under direct supervision.

(refi or heloc) But down side is less leverage.

What are the downsides to this?

Once we break 7,000 on the DOW, we may get some accellerated selling to the downside.

The only down side is (late payments, kids that are obnoxious ect.)

On the down side you have creation costs, initial filings fees with the Secretary of State and in most jurisdictions you have to pay the Secretary of State an annual fee to keep the business in good standing.

You may be able to collect a management fee as a cost, so it would come out before profit is calculated.Lots of potential downside to bringing on a partner.

The downside is you will need to live there, for a minimum of one year (to satisfy FHA Requirements); AND because you closed personally, you will not have Asset Protection, in the form of closing in the name of a LLC.