If we don't tell them we're the owner, they might start getting suspicious when they see us making these changes.The last thing we would want is for them to feel like we're being dishonest landlords, but we also want to maintain some boundaries and make it a little easier to enforce rules if need be.Thanks for your help!

I estimated the down payment with the closing fees would be around 12k and I could finalize saving that after I start my new job as a Project Engineer for a multifamily construction company next month.

I am not aware of the zoning, don't have enough contacts here so I figured Its better for me to focus and start with renting ideally to get my hand on RE.Regarding my finances: Last 2 years had some small private biz (1099).

How Technology Changed My Real Estate Business in the Last 25 Years25 years ago I decided to “formalize” by hard money / private money investments and start an investment fund and syndicate these note opportunities.

It was hard to say goodbye to my babies I started this journey back in 2006 (18 years ago) The truly sobering thing about this event is that I was able to achieve these same financial results in ONE year with my first larger commercial deal; and replace my wife's income with that deal.  

We started off on a good note with the tenant, he paid his rent on time, and so we didn't have a real reason to get too involved.

This may be a good start. 

In my opinion, it's THE best rental to hold in a landlord/investor perspective, AND it is the most complex and detailed to start into. 

We are looking to invest out of state, and we have small cash to start.

I have already started researching Andy and reached out to Justin too, thanks for those contacts.