Investors think that just by originating a loan and a borrower giving $5,000 down, they will always make payments.2.

Furthermore, understanding the resident characteristics allows me to measure the target market and modify my investment strategy accordingly.Inspection ChecklistSituations vary from one property to the next, but here is an on-site inspection checklist to get you started:Interior Units:Inspect vacant units, including one of each finish out type (Classic, Reno, etc.).Check all down units.Inspect one unit from each unit mix.Exteriors:Landscape:Look for overgrown bushes.Identify trees that need trimming (no branches hanging over the roof).Take pictures of the following:Curb appeal on all sides facing the street.Landscape around the office and amenities.Overgrown bushes or trees.Any dead landscape.Areas that may need sod or mulch.Assess drainage:Ensure water flows away from building foundations.Check slope, gutters, downspouts, surface drains, French drains, etc.Exterior Walls:Determine the existing material (wood, vinyl, Hardie, brick, stone).Assess the condition of the walls.Note if painting is required.Take pictures of each building, including building number, each elevation (clockwise), and any breezeways or niches.Windows:Evaluate the condition of existing windows.Consider whether solar screens should be installed.Roof:Identify the type of roof.Assess its condition and age.Parking Lot:Check for potholes.Assess the need for restriping.Note whether the parking lot is concrete or asphalt.Evaluate drainage issues.Walkway:Look for tripping hazards.Assess drainage issues.Foundation/Gutters:Inspect for cracks in the brick.Check for separation in corners from fascia and trim boards.Evaluate drainage and identify poor drainage areas.Amenities:Identify possible improvements.Consider adjustments or additions that can enhance amenities.Talk to the Staff:Maintenance: Inquire about the physical condition.Office: Discuss current residents, delinquency, and potential changes to add value.Assess whether rents are too high or too low.Confirm rents and what is included/not included.Confirm other sources of income and associated charges.Confirm occupancy, pre-release, and vacancy numbers.Note: Maintain professionalism and avoid insulting the owner or broker, regardless of the property's condition.Keep in mind that investing in real estate is like solving a puzzle—you need all the pieces to see the big picture.

20% down loan? 

My "guru" has shared some thoughts on that, but I'm interested in additional opinions.I'm not afraid of hard work, but I'd appreciate any thoughts on what I need to be prepared for if I head down this road, as well as opinions on the risks I'm signing up for.

We have two options with financing:20% cash down.

I had a basic road map in my head but talking to my spouse things have changed.

There were 54 homes sold in December this year, down from 67 last year.Multiple offers are rare.

The factors come down to the type of work they will be doing to "replace" this line, are they relining it with cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, epoxy pipe lining, or UV sewer lining; those are between $2k-$5k (in my area).

Mortgage broker.I picked a 7 cap to intentionally DSCR-constrain the best options to 70% LTV - in place NOI and cap rate determines the down payment requirement, a property at a 6% capitalization rate would require an even larger down payment.

So what you are paying for is the time-savings of having it spoon fed to you versus hunting it down across BP, YouTube, TikTok, etc.