So my idea is to try out buy and hold, and at a fairly high level (A/B neighborhoods, I guess), where dealing with tenants shouldn't be too stressful, even if the profits aren't as good.

Have you looked at refinancing to lower your mortgage payments? 

And you need at least 20% equity as conventional loans are usually 80% LTV.The benefits are getting a lower interest rate, at least with the rates we have right not, and getting rid of Private Mortgage Insurance, PMI, which is about $220 a month for me.

I also think the rents are a bit lower than they could be.

I wouldn't be concerned with the level of other posts as everyone on here started without knowing anything about real estate.

Probably best to find cash investors (for a lower interest rate than if they're already up for interest before lending to you for higher interest)?

It is not a guarantee but it does offer another level of protection.

The article is still relevant in the sense that the vacancy rate still remains at roughly the same elevated level (9%+) and if the post & local colleges were enough to absorb the inventory created by the Army & Air Force realignments, then the vacancy rate would expect to decrease - and that has not really transpired.

Just as important with a brokerage is shadowing someone at the brokerage performing at a high level.

Your VA loan eligibility will allow you to purchase primary residency homes (lower down payment and interest rates) that you can later use as rentals.