I am an introvert, but I will easily strike up a conversation in the store with someone and as we leave, my kids ask, "Did you know them?"

I imagine these as similar to the racially integrated neighborhoods that I grew up in in Northeast Philly in the 1970s--row homes that didn't look pretty but kids played outside and their parents didn't have fear. 

Give it some time to rise again and consider selling in the future.2) This is what investing is all about - if you keep this home as a rental and are able to acquire another, you now potentially have properties to pass down to your kids later in life.

Having a partner in the renovation business can help to keep some of your costs down, possibly giving you an edge on the buying side.Areas to target will largely depend on your income goals, your plans for property management, and your tolerance for drama.Regarding the refi part of your plans, @Darrin Carey can also offer some input - especially about target values, timelines, and the various pitfalls.As with most anything else in this business, the strategy is definitely achievable so long as you do your homework beforehand.

Correct my kids less and not make a big deal over small things. in all reality, going back in time machines has proven to be an exercise in imagination.

If so, then you basically are relying on them to have done all that homework and research for you and I would ask them about it and why they decided to offer the model/s they do, upgrades, etc.

Adam Rudolph A good investment in any market is one that you know you have done your homework on and therefore can sleep well at night.

Cash flow for retirement, kids college, etc.

I'm kidding, although, I did receive a job offer today, i was just curious of peoples experiences with skipping the bank and using a family loan that'd benefit both parties involved.

Just kidding it was a Cornhusker!