This is the tire kicking phase.  

Since this conversation started, a few weeks back, I became more curious so I did some research.( I used to be a professional researcher/analyst with the military intelligence unit over on Ft Meade.)    

Our neighbor was military and rented because he was on a 2-3 year assignment and Columbia was an easy 20 minute commute, but he was in the minority.

Here you will meet wholesalers who provide deals and all the cash buyers (rehabbers) you will need.You might consider Niche or Specialized Housing like student housing, vacation rentals or military housing.

@Benjamin DeLeonMy husband is active duty military.

Anchorage is land locked with the ocean, mountains/parks and the military base.Thanks in advance!

Three questions:-- biggest lesson learned in your first year as a landlord-- skill that was most difficult for you to learn -- which phase is hardest for you:  finding properties, screening / managing tenants, working with contractors, working out the financials, other???  

Sean the inspections, surveys, phase 1's, legal work, title and I am not even getting into the down payment or loan fees and appraisal will cost tens of thousands of dollars or more if you are lucky because this portfolio is all spread out.You need to know the total level of deferred maintenance and liability and length of tenant history and cash flow model before even getting into price.There are many sellers that are tired and want to sell but they are not tired ENOUGH to sell for the right price.You have to catch them at a point of weakness where they can't take anything anymore and will do anything to be rid of the property.Forget the 1.2 million down payment.What are the rents for the 50 sfh (houses) average and what is it for the 18 unit and the 12 unit??

I know there are a lot of military investors on BP so does anyone have tips or trick to being a traveling beginner investor?

I know as an investor it is best to try to purchase a property from the owner in the NOD phase, however there is a property in the Notice of trustee sale and has an auction date set for 8-23-13.