If a large newspaper is writing about the best place to invest it is typically too late to invest there because now the rent to value ratios have already been eaten up. 

The percentage wise 10% typical gain for $1M versus 177% gain for 275k. 

I'm horrible at picking colors and I know I need help here.Ideally this is a small, one, two or three person, shop that can move quickly.ThanksMatt McGowan

People will tell you grades don’t matter and the people who typically say that have bad gradesIf you can maintain grades while working part time then I would get a part time job in real estate.Good books to read include many here on BP, including David Greene’s book, and Brandon turner books.A lot can change between junior year in college and a couple years after.

Typically when one tenant in a joint tenancy situation moves out, the deposit stays with the property and continues to be held by the landlord in trust in case there are any damages or money owed when the property is ultimately returned. 

For older properties, your repairs are going to be higher - I typically use up to $500 per unit per year if I don't have actuals3.

hardwoods are typically $3-5/SF installed.

Section 8 rents are still typically higher than cash tenants, but it all depends on the area.

Look at typical real estate stats in the area w your real estate agent to find out what percentage of list price properties typically sell for (ie 95% of list?).

Typically a thin mdf with one finished side cut to fit.