So exciting that you and your wife are starting on this REI journey.First of all, ya'll should come to the weekly coffee networking event that @James Wachob started: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/42...Secondly, tell us more about what kind of number you are getting; hard to be helpful since I don't know what you consider "realistic".What types of investing are ya'll planning on doing?

@Remus Phillips Your best bet is to shop around at local (or at least regional) banks.

In September of 2012 i had a meeting with all of my employees to let them know that after the jobs we had, I was closing shop.

I have a Gibson 3 ton heat pump condenser unit with a new compressor in it sitting in my AC guy's shop if anyone want s to buy it...

Doing so lets you shop for the best terms without affecting your credit scores."

I would ask for the specific reason you were denied and shop around with other mortgage brokers (not necessarily direct with the bank).

First learn the numbers and how to shop for properties, and how to identify good properties, etc.

In their defense I will say that they do know what they are talking about, though very stingy on giving out any real information and anyone that wants to spend big dollars for a one stop shop then they are it. 

Then shop it around to other Property Management Companies in the area and see what they would charge.   

Pittsburgh has seen a revitalization especially with computer automation industries such as Google, Uber and Amazon opening up large shops here.