I hope to wait until I have enough to have some negotiation power when the time comes.

@Zach WoodsThere are also listings of software on bigger pockets under tools then property management.

Your buying power going down faster esp with idiots in govt  who borrow like theres no consequences.transfer cash into asset via purchase of investment rental quickly.study market enough to be prudent but not cause paralysis.

He really should have just linked them in his post so you could find it easily, but if you go to the BP podcast page, you can just type in the podcast number under the search tool, and it will be the first one that pops up. 

Check out the crime stats (SpotCrime is a great tool) and school ratings (Greatschools / Zillow) to narrow the neighborhoods down.

IRRRLs have fees, but they do have some advantages over other types of refinance since IRRRLs don't because require appraisal or underwriting.The VA loan is a powerful benefit, especially considering your husband is a disabled veteran...he very well may qualify for the VA Funding Fee to be waived.

I know tools such as the BP calculators are available for use, but I want to learn what goes on behind the scenes to fully understand the numbers (math) and specifically what it means so i can better gain an understanding & make better investment decisions when the time comes.Any advice/ tips or tricks on analyzing deals & double checking the numbers (before proceeding with the deal? 

There are so many good tools and websites out there but as a newbie out of state investor I always find this that or the other functionality lacking in every tool.

@Mark LeeWelcome to Bigger Pockets.You’ll find plenty of friendly, knowledgeable people willing to respond to your postsThe site has quite a few tools that can be helpful for new members.

Here is a link to the Calculator tools here on the site which might help with the math and a visual representation https://www.biggerpockets.com/... .