My biggest suggestion is to go talk with local community banks in your area. 

The biggest reason landlords don’t increase the rent is because they have a good tenant and don’t want to lose them.

The biggest thing is--separate out the questions you're asking into their specific categories so you can better and more easily figure it all out.

I think my biggest struggle are 1) finding deals to buy right (low price enough to make it work) and 2) contractors.

But biggest thing is run through all the numbers, often when a lender has lower rate it is just made up for in some form of extra fees. 

And sorry if I'm coming across critically, if I end up as a convert I'll be your biggest fan. :)Originally posted by @Trevor Mauch:Hey @Larry N.! 

I'd call around and see if any local banks or credit unions have a creative way that will allow you to put 0% down if that's the biggest hindrance.

Also, my biggest concern at this point is this tenant.

@Andrew Abbott , from what I've heard, one of the biggest things to be aware of is that it can be a "tenant-friendly" market, so make sure your screening process is solid and you know your rights as a landlord.

Remember, taxes are likely the biggest expense that hits your budget and it's in your best interest to invest in a tax advantageous way.