I like to have some money saved up aside from down payment just in case something happens in your life (laid off, accidents, and other emergencies), so I believe that it is much more safer to have at least 20-30% down payment when purchasing a home or investment property.

Unfortunately that's life!

Both were in the worst condition imaginable. 

I was in a position where I had nothing to show for my efforts in life save a family that I deeply love. 

The buyers were cash though and we had a good idea of interior condition from looking thru the windows. 

I’d just sell it and buy a duplex make your life easier.

I'm not totally green to the life of a landlord, as I have managed my dad's 4plex property since I was a teenager.

He is now threatening a lien if we do not make the final/full payment.What are my rights?

Just Finished Investing with no and low money down, Set for Life, and The ultimate beginners guide to getting started would recommend every one of them!

Much of the following depends on your capabilities and cash position, but I've always given people the advice to buy their first home with a 'safe' outlook with regards to appreciation, and schools.I don't know where you are at in life - if you've already made your first purchase, etc - but so far so good on those that have taken my advice.I think later on in life, if someone so desires and/or has the knack, is when it's appropriate to get into what a lot of folks on these forums do - the more aggressive projects where there's more money to be made.This is a round about answer but yes it's possible.