TSP has been a great tool, just like many other that the military has on offer.  

If not, there are credit tools (like re-scoring) to get it up enough points.

Been on here for roughly a month now just checking out all the great tools and info.

@Luke McclureCongratulations and welcome to the world of landlording.Below, are some links to help with your transition.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2012/12/09/how-to-be-a-landlord/ (How to be a landlord)https://www.fanniemae.com/content/tool/landlord-guidance.pdf (Fannie Mae landlord guidance)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/27/tenant-screening/ (Landlord/tenant screening)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (how to rent your house)https://www.biggerpockets.com/rei/pay-rent-online-payment-tools/ (Online rent payment)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/05/26/how-to-evict-a-tenant-2/ (tenant eviction)

Take your time and fully explore the blogs, podcasts, webinars...don't forget the tool bar above to learn as much as you can about REI.

Like anything else the little guys probably had to take some bigger risks and make some bolder projections, while not having all of the research and back office tools that the larger shops have in order to compete, now unlike the big guys they don't have the cash reserves to cover the overhead. 

I would suggest it's a bit dangerous to say that "Good process and tools exempt me from a rule."

Imagine what 500,000 members in an investor's association could do at state and national levels, political clout!

It has been great as a tool to get started, and we're setting our goal for our next purchase as an owner occupied 4-plex.I know that everyone has already said this, but the podcasts are an amazing tool for helping you to start learning. 

I am currently on my second property.In more recent history, I have decided that I would like to get more into real estate investing as a tool to generate increased cashflow for now and amass wealth for later.