The fact is that you have a list of requirements for renting from you, that you present to each applicant and marriage status is not on that list, supports your argument.

Interest rates, insurance hikes, rise in real estate taxes, eviction delays, rising expenses and delinquency are just a few problems investors are encountering.

My sister owns 17 SFH as well as an expensive personal residence in a different nearby town.

My goal is to at least match my current monthly expense of $3k (After all units are rented) while aiming for long-term appreciation.

Cheap House = Expensive HeadachesWhy buy 5 units in what sounds like a D class area when you can make the same cashflow with 1.5 units in a safer area with quality tenants.

Q1) Is there a minimum interest rate requirement?

@Rich Emery if you're not EXTREMELY organized, you'll spend every day with your "hair on fire", making critical mistakes that cost your clients - and you'll get burnt out.Don't forget to research the licensing requirements of PMCs. 

The appreciation in this area is already booming as it is the top two most expensive counties in the state.

However since this is a very large yard their deposit will not cover the amount that would be required to bring the front and back yard to the same condition before they moved in. 

Investing in REI will require a never ending need for cash.