The FHA Streamline sweatshops don't need to calculate income, barely need to verify employment, don't even need an appraisal department, virtually zero buy-backs, etc, so there's a whole bunch of overhead costs they simply don't have at all, and they can hire the dumbest/cheapest people for all positions.

Good position to be in though. 

The total cost of loan w/ interest at end of term (pretty much positive it isnt this one...)Thanks!!

I've been reading David Greene's Long-Distance Real Estate Investing to build some knowledge but I don't want to get stuck in the analysis paralysis phase and would like to take action as soon as possible.I'm mainly looking for small multi-family properties (duplex, triplex, fourplex) to start with and eventually expand towards commercial properties. 

Stats will show that the success rate for those in your present position wishing yo get into real estate investing is about 5%.

I think you'll cashflow positive, but it may not be as much as you'd expect.

Third, if you get in a position to put significant cash as a downpayment, you should always look at local lenders who know your market, and can move quickly. 

For the more aggressive clients, fine distinctions matter and open up some opportunities.....and risks.I would point out that Carl's examples of "how to screw up your IRA" involved specific actions, such as "providing a service" or "extension of credit". 

I believe that this would have to be considered in the initial purchase to provide a positive cash flow.

So, I am thinking of taking action before it escalates.