We encountered the same thing, and ended up buying in the next town over where the prices and taxes weren't as high.We tend to look at properties (2-4 units) that are fully occupied.

Weall started from somewhere and you know yourself better than anyoneelse.I suggest that you clearly define your criteria and what you are looking for.Based on the area you choose, a local Investor-Agent can help shorten your learning curve and saveyou a lot of headaches as they tend to understand the market better.Additionally, here are 5 top ways to scale your real estate investment business.1.

Also, they will tend to lend nicer to someone who is looking to grow.

I know water bills tend to be minor, but I’ve seen more foolish things for people to argue about.Additionally, you mentioned you own a 3 storeretail strip, so far in your experience has a commercial rental been a worth while venture?

I can only talk about our time lines.. quickest start to finish with shovel ready lots tends to be 9 months and longest about 18.. so if we get it done quicker than 12 of course that juices our APR substantially. 

However, for many people, 401k makes a lot of sense for tax purposes as well as because in general people tend to consider index funds to be relatively reliable in the long term.

Qualified owner occupants tend to want nicer homes more than lower mortgage payment.

Personally I stick with M2M...... you have no idea who these people are....you didn't screen them and sellers tend to sugar coat how great the tenants are....you may want them gone soon and the M2M makes that WAY easier than a 12 month lease.

The east side of Arlington tends to be the rougher part of Arlington.

I also understand that low income places are risky because the type of tenants that are  attracted to the lower priced properties tend to thrash the place.