But I haven't met many successful 'self-made' CRE investors who haven't lowered their pain factor, crunched their timeline or increased their learning curve without seeking out a mentor or two on the way.

.#5 Make Decisions Based on the NumbersYour real estate investing strategy should include the financial parameters by which you determine if a property is worth purchasing.Your strategy may include details about: Purchase price range.Investment cash needed for repairs and upgrades before leasing to tenants.Financing strategy for the short and long terms.Bargain purchase (the percent under fair market value a property must be purchased).Immediate value increase (the percent in increased value you expect after making initial repairs and upgrades).Geographic area.Net income.Cash flow.Net cap rate (annual net income/total value).When you find a potential investment property that fits within the guidelines of your real estate investment strategy, you can pull the trigger based on the numbers rather than emotions and personal preferences.#6 Don’t Buy from Unmotivated SellersMotivated sellers are usually willing to work with buyers, so focusing on finding motivated sellers can result in making great deals as a real estate investor.

Also get ready for your HOA fees to increase!

When the company needs more money will you take loans or each have to increase your investment equally to ensure 50/50 equity?

Does anyone have any tips or tricks as to the cheapest/most useful updates that not only are eye catching to a potential tenant, but increase property value at the same time? 

Here’s information about an interesting one:“The Dutch city of Eindhoven is to be the first in the world to have habitable homes made by a 3D printer, in an innovation its backers believe will revolutionise the construction industry.Of the first five new houses to be put on the rental market next year, the smallest, with two bedrooms, has already attracted applications from 20 interested families just a week after images were made available.Known as Project Milestone, the development is said by the Dutch construction company Van Wijnen to offer...”https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2018/jun/...

Seattle market is likely peaking,   so if and when you are ready to sell,    it might be the difference between selling as a fixer or selling as move in ready.Besides,  if your house looks better,  it makes the neighborhood look better,  and might attract better tenants to both your home and that section 8 rental across the street next time it turns over.

I guess my other question is wouldn't cash flow potential increase over time as your mortgage cost (the interest payments) decrease and you can increase rent. 

You get 13%.Increased Scale, Less Risk – You’re investing in a former hotel with 23 upscale units and a view of the Cali River.

Then within 1 to 2 years move out by buying another place rent your old place out you lived in and continue to increase your positive cash flow.Remember, cash flow is king!!