My concern for you would be exactly that - building it so big that it does turn into a monster you can't manage or grow, because the business systems aren't set up optimally.

Hence you're at a negative cashflow of $333 after paying $10K in mortgage.The only thing that can make this project work is rapid rent increase in the first year.

Investing in Real Estate starts up slow but builds rapidly.

I, personally, would like to grow my business and at the point I am at, I basically need to start a property management company to accomplish this.Seems like a win-win scenario if properly structured.Any input would be greatly appreciated.

I look forward to growing with you guys. 

If you are looking at duplexes... check out New Braunfels... decent prices (lot less than Austin) and growing market.

@Kevin MasonNotes and lending to other established real estate investors can be a good way to passively grow the account balance.

Does anyone have a recommended window installer in the Cedar Rapids area?

You want a market that is growing and diverse.5.

My goal was to buy single family homes in distressed properties ( short sales, or NOD leads by calling home owners and seeing if they want to sell before they go into foreclosure)  in a growing population area with strong job growth and buy, add value , and rent them out for tiny bits of cashflow and wait for appreciation. 2 main questions I have at the moment. 1) How did you pick your market to buy your first investment?