An additional benefit of a detailed engineering-based Cost Segregation Study is that it can increase potential insurance premium savings as well as provides support for the property tax appeals process.

You hardly build any equity in your first year, it makes sense to refi only if the rate is substantially lower or if you can get rid of mortgage insurance.

@Matthew Mueller if the PMC is representing you as the property owner, then they are your legal agent and have legal responsibilities to the owner.Is this PMC properly licensed and insured?

Should we offer preference and less equity?

You can start real estate investing, reading resources, familiarizing yourself with the Albany, GA market, setting short-term and long-term goals, preparing financially, building a team, conducting property searches, conducting due diligence, making an offer, managing property, and joining local groups.

I'm open to any advice that anyone here has to offer. have a great weekend everyone

You can also possibly rent it as is separately for another $150-$200/month especially if your comps do not offer garages.

Investing with foreknowledge that property values are falling seems like a timing problem or at least a situation where my offer would be reduced to reflect this coming change.As to how much to put in as a down payment that depends more on your numbers, your risk tolerance, ability to get financing, cost of financing, etc. 

I've been interested in REI for a year or so, and am only just now finding out about the BP community and all of the resources it has to offer new investors.

Monthly Expenses and Cashflow:- Principal, Property Taxes, Home Insurance: $1,446.38- Property Management (12% of Rent Price): $358.08/ mo.- Monthly cashflow: $1,179.54Obviously these are rough estimates, but I feel that I've given myself enough buffer throughout the calculation/ analysis that if there are any unexpected expenses, I'll still be able to cover them and have a property that Cashflows a decent amt each month.