Save as much money for a down payment as possible. 

First time home buyer to qualify for certain down payment assistance programs and loans is a person who has NOT owned for the past 36 months.FHA doesn't require you to be a first time home buyer.

Many of these are interest only payments until the agreed upon loan matures. ( PMLs are very adaptable to situations, markets, and costs- compared to traditional banking institutions). 

Hi John, Here are the numbers: Purchase Price $101k/ ARV $205k/ Down payment $21k/ No rehab/ 785 credit score/ 30 yr amortization

In your case you can also take advantage of 0% down payment VA loans only available to military individuals.

I would love to hear some of your opinions on what amount is ideal for a down payment, closing cost, ect.

.- Financing seems much riskier, since you have to make the mortgage payments regardless if you have a tenant or not if you finance, but if you own not having a tenant would stink, but you still are getting the appreciation and the risk of going negative cash flow is MUCH less.Thanks -I am really interested in hearing different viewpoints.

I’d love to know what others would be looking at as a cut off cap rate for a similar sized new build in the area.Are you working in the area? 

Figure out your equity and make payments. 

I've posted this before, but a GP should be able to articulate to LP's a competitive edge.