Worked out by simply asking and selling him on the concept of making interest and being the bank!

I think I understand the general concept.

I understand the general concept of rate buydown in that it effectively creates a breakeven a few years down the road where you end up saving money. 

While I agree that owning a business is great and I can't not recommend it because I own one and take advantage of it to the fullest extent I can, just like I'm sure you do, I think a far simpler solution is, having less debt.

Yes, with regard to lenders, it’s much simpler to get a loan once they get to see your professional experience.

It is actually more streamlined and simpler, especially when owning more than one property.

With each day I'm starting to feel more and more comfortable with these concepts and feel that in order to avoid analysis paralysis I need to get off my butt and just jump in. 

I feel like its simpler for me to start investing local even if its a tougher market, Like someone I cant remember said "its not the market its the marketing".

Mastermind Group: a peer-to-peer mentoring concept used to help members solve their problems with input and advice from the other group members Mentor: a trusted counselor or guideMastermind Groups > Mentors, no? 

I like the larger earnest money concept from @Jessica Zolotorofe.