This was an absolute game changer for me. 

Red flags include..I want to move in early....I want to do a long term lease...I will pay you in cash....I will pay a double security deposit...I will pay multiple months in advance.....These are big reds flags that applicants will use to sweeten the deal to cover for something else..... its the carrot to lure you into the trap.

There are lenders who work with investors and are happy to provide multiple letters without any hassle.The "1% rule" is a guideline. 1%, ROI, and cash flow are all very different metrics, and none of them are wrong, but they don't always align either. 

He's helped me and few buddies buy multiple rentals in Louisville.

I found multiple private lenders (individuals) by going to local real estate Meetups.

We never even thought we would have to replace the floors (there are multiple spots with deep gouges and what looks like carvings down into the exposed unstained wood underneath the top layer. 

It makes sense to have multiple buyers in mind when you put something under contract. 

I'm active duty military currently, and am retiring in the next 5 or so years and intend on working for myself owning multiple homes/apartments. 

@Jordan Liles The best way to determine what a property will rent for is to check multiple sources. 

Try getting a list of the local banks and ask to speak to a commercial or small business lender to have multiple data points to get a feel for the terms & rates you may be ok with.