What are the permit requirements, if anyWhat quality level of finish do you need to hit in order to make it match the demographics of the neighborhood These will all ply a role in determining if you’ve got a winner or a loser.

So I have been asking friends if they would co-sign on this loan (to purely borrow them for their W-2 income credentials) and in return for helping me qualify, I would pay them $1000/month while I own the property.

So I keep the playing field “level”.

If you’re a full time student you’d need someone to co sign the loan since you won’t have any income.

I know on a small level some of my clients that bought in Texas only to have their tax's reassess after they purchase went from modest cash flow to negative cash flow just beacsue of ad valorum tax burden.

As for 1.5 years vs 2 years of employment you can either have a family member or someone co-sign, as it sounds like you're very responsible and you may have friends or family willing to vouch for you.

The ins. co. will either insure in for what I paid for it, which is below market value or it's replacement cost which is unrealistic.

I've asked them for a co-signer. 

Determining current rents is not rocket science........ call a management co. or better yet go on an apartment site and come up with your own number.

Loopnet/Co-star is where the big money investors look.