:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+, zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680, some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

You’re able to learn the basics of a real estate investment with lower risk and build equity at the same time.

Mortgage rates depending on credit scores are much lower.

I also refinanced to a lower rate, but didn't cash out equity or anything, just wanted a lower rate. 

My initial hunch is that there may be extremely limited options of what can be built, and a likelihood of nothing being allowed. 

We have kept up on maintenance and we just renovated the lower level and upgraded the plumbing so we do not anticipate too many issues, but you never know what tomorrow brings when you have a 60 year old house!

Are CD’s a viable option to invest short term?

If the assessment is lower than the comps that may be a tough battle.

Although I have knowledge and experience in my local market, I am most interested in some out-of-state options as I like those opportunities better than what I have locally but know little about where to begin evaluating those markets and the pros and cons of the different states.

I have trying to find ways to give back to the community and while I would love to increase my monthly tithe percentage but that's not currently an option.