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.

Most lenders want a minimum of $100k for just about any 30 year conventional loan so you'd be right at the entry level.