You want to keep your nest egg up because eventually you will have to retire (but maybe not for 20 years!)

But you will eventually have vacancy and repairs that will come into play.Also, be sure to change your insurance policy from a homeowners policy to a landlord policy.

Free and clear properties are more attractive targets (not only for litigation-happy folks but also - heaven forbid - for divorcing spouses).Consider your risk tolerance, of course, but consider using leverage on all your investment properties - even if you need to eventually keep your LTV around 60% or 50% so you can sleep better at night.

I've done a lot of research on calculating ARV/construction costs but, I feel a second set of experienced eyes will help tremendously when evaluating deals.I  also do plan on eventually taking on some flips of my own in the near future as well.Sorry for the long post but, I am very excited about finally moving past the education only phase and in to actively investing!

If you do a search there is a great debate about this topic, that I believe started a little tongue-in-cheek but eventually grew to a mud slinging contest.That rule, in my opinion, is a very early qualifying factor.

Getting into this business will allow us the flexibility to be with our kids and eventually will allow for better financial freedom.

My strategy was to fix up all units to make them rental ready, try to make back the profits from renting, and then eventually sell to  purchase something more closer.Since Dayton OH market is depressed would you guys suggest even putting the money in for a rehab and possibly flip with tenants or just selling ASAP without rehab or realtor help, get back what I can and get out of Ohio.

I have heard of investors who literally went door to door to several different banks asking for an unsecured line of credit and eventually getting one.Who do you know that you could partner with to help get the financing?

Keep crunching numbers and you'll find a decent investment eventually.

(If seller wants to cash out eventually)