I look forward to learning, networking, sharing and discussing topics of mutual interests as I start on this new journey.

I don't believe taking the lump sum to be beneficial (taxes) but I do see an opportunity to use the money for an REI.

Acceptable forms of reserves include cash in checking/savings; investments in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds; a CD; money market account; cash-value in life insurance; and a percentage of vested retirement accounts.#3 As far as DTI, Fannie/Freddie will typically allow up to 45%.

Still, nice group of guys and networking is always beneficial.

They have been giving me better returns than my Roth Ira mutual fund which I started around the same time.

I'd rather have 5 good buyers with whom I've developed a mutual trust than a list of 100.

I've read also that it could beneficial depending on the situation to refinance to a conventional loan especially if your rehab substantially improved the property. 

There is a plethora of free networking events and almost all have an education component that may be beneficial to you.  

Looking forward to meeting some strong local REI contacts as well as anyone else that feels the need for mutually beneficial contacts!

I still think it would be beneficial for you to order The Book on flipping houses and The book on estimating costs.