We have til this time next year to figure out our business plan and choose which models to follow.Something else I was pondering: 15yr mortgage instead of 30yr on rental property.

: get a cashiers check for 10k made out to an escrow company I pre-choose and include a copy of it with the offer and a proof of funds showing I am not seeking financing?

They will basically take care of everything, including getting the house Section 8 qualified, if I choose to go that route.

what cities are you investing in?I currently live in and own a multi-family in NYC. I would like to expand to cheaper markets that wont require 100k down payments. I have been looking heavily at cities in New Jersey, ...

Hopefully all while the property is appreciating.If you haven't gussed I am a long term hold landlord :)   4 years ago I was in your shoes and I choose to turn it into a long term rental and I haev no regrets.One thing I will say, I am not 2 hours away from my property I am 25 minutes.Best of luck,Chris

The busy buyers/sellers will be able to choose services based on their needs.

I can't assume all of our tenants have the reading skills necessary to benefit from reading a book or will have the interest in listening to a recording of a book I choose. 

If you choose to keep the condo and rent it out time will still be on your side for a while.

But I'll try to work with whatever you choose.

I was faced with the same option, I choose to stick to about a dozen investors, a few with very, very deep pockets and use no more than 3 on any project, usually any one could swing 90% of what went on alone,  much easier life getting started that way. :)