My end goal is the have multiple properties that I buy and hold for constant cash flow. 

ScottI know its common knowledge for everyone but,,,Of course make sure you have a traditional P shaped drain trap known as a "P Trap" and make sure it is installed properly so you have 1/4" per foot negative grade toward the sanitary tee fitting in the wall.A tight trap joint with no leaks assures a proper water seal in the belly of the trap to isolate any sewer gases or odors'To this day ,I go out on plumbing calls for complaints of odors and find fixtures without proper traps or vents sometimes in million dollar homes and businesses.Yeah,,,,,,go figure guys,,,,,Hope this helps DD

With the University (UVA for those of you who don't know) growing rapidly as well as continuing job-growth (at least in the professional ranks) it is a fabulous place to own rental properties with near constant demand.  

I listen to them constantly in the car during my commute!

We never waited for something to happen, we were constantly following up and staying up on top of things.

He only wants to be a silent partner who infuses the initial purchase capital.My thoughts were to open a joint account where both of us are required to sign prior to any withdrawals and use that on the new mortgage application.  

@Pradeep Nagaraja, Are you looking to Joint Venture?

If stairs will be covered and it diesnt matter cosmetically, you can cut offending tread out several inches away from spindles, glue and screw a 6" wide plywood scab under the joint, and install new tread. 3" of the scab will go under existing piece of tread and new tread will sit atop the other 3".

That being said if you really want to start and cannot reasonably do it elsewhere then go to plan B where you look at houses and markets constantly until you find a deal that at least meets the 1% rule.

Upon death of one spouse on jointly held property, the surviving spouse usually gets full ownership (subject to pre-existing liens and encumbrances, of course).