Asset class matters a ton and my fear is that 80K and desire for more cash flow will result in buying a risky asset class, which can go south in a hurry.

@Daniel HanAs many people here pointed out, it all depends on 1) your experience and 2) your desire/bandwidth so that you could determine whether you will be active or passive RE investor. 

A+ school district makes this area very desirable area of Huntsville so it rents quickly.I found this by contacting agents on Loopnet.

A+ school district makes this area very desirable area of Huntsville so it rents quickly.Found agents on Loopnet.

If we did not have low interest rate we would have experienced a bubble in most desirable part (RE) of west coast.

So look at revenues annually.You will typically find properties that meet my 15% Rule in the most desirable STR parts of the US, such as Tennessee, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, California, and Hawaii.

I gained a new comprehension of equity on these very forums the other day and all the sudden the evil spectre of a mortgage wilted away into something more benign, even desirable as a tool to improve my situation.

Some of my own thoughts on what would make this desirable:1) loan is much much lower than the value of the property2) if there is no underlying loan and I am in first position3) there IS an underlying loan, and I am in second position, but the first position loan is low relative to the value of the property and would be worth it to pay off/take over payments.

I have an extreme desire to succeed and I know my first deal is right around the corner, I just want to make sure I am taking the proper steps to make it a reality!

I can totally relate to what your feeling, your desires and goals.