Those that do not understand the burden bad debt places on a indivulaes life do not understand money and are always going to look for the short cuts in life to success.As for your investing plans I would say you need to put those on hold for a few years as it is likely you and your wife will have more than enough on your plate.

And be careful not to try to short cut around these important steps no matter how impatient you might be feeling ... that usually does not end well ... make sure you pour a solid foundation and allow it to cure before you try to build up a few stories high.One other thing, you should check out Mr.

Does the lender cut checks for all people?

I simply want to know what I need to do to give myself an edge over my competitors.

IN regards to renting a SFH a 450-650 buffer above debt repayment is cutting it very thin and there is a possibility (strong possibility) you will have negative cash flow.

So next time around all you have to do is touch up, and won't have to worry about cutting in around windows, closets, and doors as much.  

If you nickle and dime your subs then most of will cut corners or worst , rush your job.

Hint: if tenant cuts water in half, pool equip stops running, $$$$ garden burns up, and water features stop working.

You have to remember "extra" costs such as snow plowing and grass cutting that fall on the owners.

If you think it'll location and and innate qualities are great enough, then find a spot on edge to begin your empire.