I simply do not understand why anyone wants to invest in markets where cash flow is hard to achieve.

There are ok areas of each, but it will be hard to determine that from the west coast. 

With that information you can build a pro forma to determine net operating income given different scenarios.

This is why cap rate is commonly used to compare one property against another to determine which is a better investment.When you measure ROI specific to you (i.e. the investor), then yes it makes more sense to use your down payment.

How can I determine the probable room rent before signing a lease? 

How does one determine sales price based on rent?  

We simply got tired of arranging for inspections, then replacing perfectly good handrails because they weren't the proper height, and so on, and so on. 

We have flippers who simply move the furniture from home to home.   

If you love what you do and you are motivated to succeed, the return on your investment will certainly outweigh any hardship endured toward reaching perfection.Stay tuned as part two brings you an outline of things you need to think about, determine, and research so you can begin to define yourself into your own personal brand.

I’m on the down hill side now... it’s taken a couple of years of hard work and determination, as well as paying some high interest rates to get back.