I realize my budget would be mainly driven by this calculation.

How much of the economy is being driven by all the construction going on, etc.?

Its on sticks driven into the ground and you buy the home and the land.

Anyone know an affordable AI floor plan tool?

You have found the right place for a plethora of information on REI.Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...I hope BP helps you achieve your goals!

Fico scores make up part of the equation but some programs are not as Fico driven so reviewing your income and monthly debts is a quick way to calculate your Max loan amount or at least a target monthly payment.If you have a target monthly payment and know the neighborhood you want to buy in that is a fairly easy way as well. 

Prices are mostly being driven by low inventory. 

Las Vegas FundamentalsUnlike financial markets (which are largely driven by emotions), real estate prices and rents are driven by supply and demand.

If you are looking at your investment from an IRR perspective, Bay Area is extremely good, due to shortage in supply and demand driven by the demographics who are looking to get their first property.For out of state investing, here are a few meetups I would recommend.- NVST capital - occurs monthly in Milpitas- Barstool meetup - occurs monthly in South Bay, Oakland and SF- Meetups hosted by David Greene team - occurs monthly in Walnut Creek hosted by Irish Abat and Steve Lam.

flex option to purchase agreements -can someone email me a copy alsoThank you, in advanceRegarding Peter Giardini ‘ get out there and find the deals directly and then assign them to your buyers ‘ : I have not done a Wholesale deal yet, but it seems everyone looking to partner up now a day Supposedly more quality deals equal more money (partnering up ) This just my opinion