My assumption has been DSCR is the main driver, coming from my institutional experience (larger deals) we usually target a 1.2 and over DSCR.

With all these people jumping in, the problem gets larger by unscrupulous individuals who start selling, and up-selling, so called "Real Estate Training Courses." 

Ref:  Active Energy Account?

Banks ask for larger down payments to shift risk to the buyer/borrower in default. 

Building a network, finding mentorship, joining local REI groups, and expanding your portfolio through larger investments can help.

HVAC could last another year or 5 but on any property you need to be prepared for larger expenses to come up during ownership.

Granted that's apples and oranges, because the new homes are larger and all in the suburbs, but as long as you can buy an existing home for half the price per square foot than a new construction home I would be careful with expecting peak appreciation.

But for straightforward setups, you can actually form an LLC directly on the PA Department of State website yourself, and it’s very cost-effective.For larger portfolios or more complex structures, some investors prefer going through a real estate attorney to ensure their LLC is set up to maximize tax benefits and liability protection.

Just had a great experience using Ben Meyer / https://www.mystarenergy.com/ for energy audits in the KC area.

She does not have an on line mangement system though just sends a check each month with a little ledger of expenses.I have a client that runs a larger company and they do a nice job at least on all the deals I have done for them as a capital partner when I do the draws and look at my before and afters they do some really nice work in a timely fashion