Reviewing data from different sources (check around BP to find those resources) is a good step in the process but I believe that speaking to other investors, realtors, rental managers and other local people is the best way to find out where to invest and where not to invest.  

When they finally take action, they hit a roadblock (they need to put down more $ than they had originally planned, or they don't actually love the idea of self managing) then they get shiny object syndrome, bouncing around to different strategies until they hit a wall and give up.

I am not a mortgage broker, but my limited knowledge is you can (if you financially qualify) and the property has different second home features it is possible. 

Each may put more emphasis on different aspects of a deal to fit there lending box.

1. plan for a 10% dip in values & run your numbers that way. 2. check out jamil damji's book on wholesaling, and use the parts about all the different ways to find good, cheap deals.3.

@Maria Moyathere's a lot in your post... let's completely forget about "getting into real estate" for a second, and try something different. 

If so the builders would be paying your buyer agents commission unless it's different. 

I would take a different approach and find a great property manager.

I am looking at different markets but I am interested in the Cleveland Market for various reasons, but most of all the low barrier of entry.

He said your dad comes from a different age where things were maintained differently and that I need to make a move if I want something.