I've bought vacant properties through a judicial tax sale before but this is my first occupied property. 

I did this earlier in the year with a local bank who were running a special fixed rate until next year May. 

I have 2 long term rentals both at 7.5% interest rates.1. estimated value: $950k, outstanding mortgage of $574k2. estimated value: $900k, outstanding mortgage of $514k#1 cash flows nicely for me at $2500/mo, but #2 leaves me at a $400 loss each month, mainly due to the interest rate.

@Zackarias Aitchison FYI -- Webinar on 6/18/19: "Common Mistakes Made by First-Time Syndicators" by Gene Trowbridge and Jonathan Nieh

Cap rates are low.

Im trying to decide if flipping a home or buying a rental property is the best option for my first investment.

For those that don't know the Aug 17th NAR settlement will now REQUIRE realtors sign a contract with their clients PRIOR to showing their first house. 

First, the basics:     Where are you investing?    

I’m looking to invest in my first property and spoke with someone from Renttoretirement and it seems like a great service.

If the tenant is paying the HOA fee, you may have to reduce the rent rate to make it make sense.