Try interviewing at least three managers.1.

Woody's business started at the time he purchased the 1st property or at the time he held it out for rent, because, in any event, the expenses in question here all occurred before the purchase date, i.e., before December 30If the earliest possible date investor was actively carrying on a trade or business was December 30, 2004, then any expenses incurred in that year but incurred “before the day on which the active trade or business” began, all the expenses incurred from January 1 through December 29, 2004--would be, by definition, start-up expenses whose deductibility, and possible amortization, is expressly dealt with by section 195 (Start up amortization).Court case for reference: Code Sec(s): 162; 195Docket: Dkt No. 30077-07.Date Issued: 04/30/2009Judge: Opinion by Gustafson, J.Tax Year(s): Year 2004.Disposition: Decision for Commissioner.

I'm looking to use my VA Loan for the first time to purchase my first property.

At that time I am not sophisticated enough.

I'm a first time investor, and all these things are adding up to be a huge headache and source of anxiety for me.

Use a reliable customer relationship management (CRM) system to manage and organize your investor data.

A lot of that time is used up already.

Here's some guidance on buying your first investment property in Southern California or Columbus, Ohio:Down payment:For investment properties, lenders typically require 15-30% down payment on your first investment15% down is possible with excellent credit (700+ score)20-25% down is more common, especially for multi-unit propertiesSection 8 considerations:Pros:Guaranteed portion of rent from governmentPotential for longer-term tenantsMay be easier to fill vacancies in some areasCons:More paperwork and inspections requiredRent amounts set by local housing authorityPotential property damage concernsOther tips:Research local markets carefully - price trends, rental rates, etc.Factor in all costs - taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacanciesConsider starting with a single-family home or small multi-unitBuild a team - real estate agent, property manager, contractorsHave cash reserves beyond just the down paymentUnderstand landlord-tenant laws in your chosen locationI'd recommend talking to local real estate agents in both areas to get more specific market insights.

thanks so much for taking the time to read this. 

At the time of transaction, title is clear.