@Alex FreeloveI don't think @Duc Ong is giving you tax advice, the ratio (ROE) that he mentions has to do with how efficiently you are using your equity (tax implications aside).

Here's how real estate has changed my life.1) I receive checks at all different times of the month.2) I have more income coming in than ever before.3) I pay less of a tax rate than I ever have4) My net worth goes up literally everyday.5) I spend more time with my kids than I ever have... 6) I get to give to things that I'm passionate about7) I love what I do everyday.This is not a post to brag, It is a post to motivate.....

I'm motivated to go this route and I will do it.

What are your motivations for lending the money vs buying your first property? 

A good property manager can be hard to find —but finding one who can efficiently manage your rentals will make your life significantly easier.Handyman—You’re going to need someone to take care of the little things that come up on a daily basis.

Your only focus right now should be on finding motivated sellers. 

What's the sellers motivation for selling?

@Cody Merkes The best and most efficient way to find deals is going to be through your broker relationships.

The new contractor is more expensive but saves so much time and effort in the long run due to their expertise and efficiency.

Demand, location, positive cash flow whether you are financing it or not, area growth, amenities, repairs, seller motivation, is it in a flood plane  economical pluses or minuses, property age, layout, historical issues, future projections, neighborhood issues, weather issues that are negative or positive, distance from an existing public protection, if provided, storage area, and property taxes.