I'm guessing it doesn't always go smoothly for you either?

Once I get this first purchase out of the way I think things will move more smoothly, but I would be on a 5 year track to pay off these loans and then refinance the property at 5 years, hopefully with much added value through smart property management.any thoughts?

Granted, he is not a "smooth" talker like other gurus.

I had problems with an inherited tenant, but for the most part things have been smooth.

Any secrets to smooth over being a woman and needing to hire trade types? 

Now that the property is mine, things have been going smoothly.

If you pick a time period like 1-year, you can typically smooth the numbers from things like insurance and tax payments (since they are made on annual or semi-annual basis). 

She was pre-approved and everything was going smoothly.

Don't assume there will be smooth sailing right after you buy a rental - often times there will be sins of the previous owner that you have to pay for.If I were you, I'd find another job and pursue the duplex deal in the meantime - and whatever you end up buying, make sure it REALLY looks good on paper, because there will always be unexpected problems to deal with.

The "analysis paralysis" came early, but with a great family here at BP I'm sure it will be a smooth process once I dive in.Thanks for a great website with like-minded individuals to come together!