Still, I like what they offer and think they are making a good job and know the market. 

I would say having family nearby could be beneficial if you think they could be of any assistance.

But it's difficult and time consuming, and despite David Greene's book, I do think it's difficult for a brand new investor to BRRRR in Ohio or Alabama from California =)

I think of it this way- A minimum of 10% of all my partner and I earn we give back.  

I think my range will be somewhere around 300k. 

Look at fourplexes.I think we now  have Fannie loans (in addition to FHA) that cover owner occupied multi-family!

Why do you think purchase contracts are so long and have such small print?

My thought is that because they ask for no deposit and the first month free that they will place a renter for cheap really quick and then disappear before ever making a payment to you.I was thinking the same thing.  

I think that would be a good amount for a down-payment for a decent property.

I'm thinking about negotiating for a 40% stake in the overall business or a portion of the revenue from new members.