On a similar note, I think there will be more realistic virtual tours that will come out as the technology for VR is improved.

It can be a good business.I think you really need to run some realistic numbers.

I'm currently looking around for my first deal - so take with a grain of salt...Can you realistically continue to rent for $700 without the additional $20k-30k or work?

We would love Ballard, Fremont, Greenlake, Beacon Hill, etc but I don't know how realistic those areas would be for 1.

Is this a realistic No in Texas?

Until you know a realistic number for your rent your ROI's, CoC's, and cash flow will be skewed.Also, if you have enough for the down payment, might I suggest you use that to begin paying down your personal debt, then wait to purchase a property until you close to or fully debt free.  

Is this rent realistic?

But for the purposes of this thread, I am talking money: could I realistically afford a multi-family home in an okay area of Baltimore?

I'll definitely have to take it all into consideration and try to figure out what the best/most realistic option is for my situation right now.

Realistically I'm just hoping to learn either I was missing something to complete the deal or it just wasn't possible or its my lucky day.