That way, you can live rent free and save what you would have been spending on rent to buy additional properties. 

That's negotiating against yourself.7 - Rehab budget (tells you what you are willing to spend)8 - Actual rehab cost (tells you if the property will play nice with #7). 

Kinda late, but i'd be happy to offer assistance.

Are there really jobs out there as a REI Assistant/Intern?

During periods that military members are not given raises in housing allowance.3. 2015 total dollars brought into the economic base by, military spending, salaries, retirement and pensions; equals approximately $980 million. 4.

If i am sure that I will go the Rent strategy, I would spend a bit more to put in more durable finishes such as tile flooring potentially higher grade countertops and casework, etc, compared to flipping.

I just purchased the house a couple years ago 0 money down and I still owe a fairly decent amount so I may not walk out with much spending money depending on the price of the house.

For example, Bridgewater (Bridgewater State University) had two duplexes sold recently at $542,000 and $575,000 - still over your budget.I think you're going to have to raise your spend or consider another area.

The QI world is unregulated and it’s important to make sure the company you choose is insured and bonded and has the experience and expertise to assist you.  

@Chuck Holland -There are a ton of question to answer your question.How much do you have to spend?