Once you leave the property and rent it out, those funds are still tied up and go against your VA benefit.  

They are getting a ton of benefits but not giving you much back.

But you should ask those who are trying to recruit you what are the benefits of you joining their team? 

My two sources are about the same in every way except interest rate and seasoning.31 day seasoning, 6.99%6 month seasoning 5.1%...so, I use both for each property to take advantage of each program's benefit. 

I can see a benefit in being single as it allows you to live minimalistic like the college student that you are.

There are inexpensive pre-paid legal services which will provide document review as a benefit.

Can´t imagine what´d I´d say other than that, besides encourage you to stick around here and share your experiences with other forums members - everybody can benefit from your input, whether they be in your shoes, before, or after.

We are going back to seller to see if they will negotiate the sales price down to the appraisal - so in the end it might be to our benefit. 

There are agencies that don't allow an agent to represent themselves when buying property for their own benefit.  

I am not sure if I feel comfortable managing a second property at this time, especially when the other is unfinished, but I do see the benefits of having a more positive cash flow.Thanks in advance for the advice!