my end goal would look some thing like 94k in my bank acount (cash) , new $144k loan then rent out residence to pay off loan and produce cash flow.

Are we making the right decision by trying to utilizing the equity in our primary or going about this all wrong?

Taxes are 869/yr, utilities paid by tenants, insurance (approximating 500).  

No, there shouldn't be a rooster at the property that attacks the appraiser, and yes the utilities should be on and functional when the appraiser shows up.

(U) "Exclusive right to sell or lease listing agreement" means an agency agreement between a seller and broker that meets the requirements of section 4735.55 of the Revised Code and does both of the following:(1) Grants the broker the exclusive right to represent the seller in the sale or lease of the seller's property;(2) Provides the broker will be compensated if the broker, the seller, or any other person or entity produces a purchaser or tenant in accordance with the terms specified in the listing agreement or if the property is sold or leased during the term of the listing agreement to anyone other than to specifically exempted persons or entities.

@Francis Morris, I like the following sites for market metrics like the one's you mentioned:Berkadia.comMarcus and MillichapCBRECensus.gov (specifically factfinder.census.gov and utilizing the guided search feature)The Marcus/Millichap and CBRE also have a property search feature where you can look at OM's for listed properties.  

What system(s) are being utilized to manage these opportunities? 

Hi everyone,I’m currently a freshman CS student at the University of Michigan, and have been fascinated by real estate as an investment vehicle to produce steady cash flow.

But for families with college students or for students who are connected in the community those can be great producers for little effort.Bottom line is the 1031 would work.   

If you can negotiate the right combination of property price, term of option, and consideration payment you will give the seller, you now have the luxury to utilize the 'time' you have bought with the option to find the highest and best use for the property.So why give up a non-refundable consideration to the seller, when there are those that simply negotiate a $500 or so refundable deposit on a straight purchase and sale agreement?