Do you the ability to refinance if the loan gets called?  

I would not trade this experience for the world because, on the other end of a lot of stressful days and nights, I have much more confidence in my own abilities.  

I knew about TOPA in general terms, but I was not aware just how long they have at various stages to hold up a deal and the fact that they need not demonstrate ability to buy upfront.Because of the extent of tenant-friendly laws and how often they seem to be changing (every tenant in the city should have received a copy of the tenant bill of rights this year, if they didn't, any rent increases during their tenancy are illegal), I'm considering putting my property under management even if I owner occupy.

I am also working on my RE license, hopefully finishing in the next 1-2 months (mainly with a goal of education, access to MLS, networking, and the ability to do property management in the next couple of years).

Also, if you have the ability to do a couple of deals on your own, without outside financing, that will go a long way toward getting you the most favorable terms...just proving a bit of a track record.5)  70% is a guideline and really is determined by what your costs are, and you need to be sure you are covering ALL of your costs...commissions, taxes, holding, reno, etc. 

.- Insurance - With my flips I plan to do most the work myself and contract out any bigger jobs outside my abilities or that require a permit.

Depends on the contractor...I have some very good subcontractors whose first language is clearly not English (And before you go assuming anything, for some of them it isn't Spanish either.) ... for them I have some mercy on their language abilities if they seem otherwise capable.If the first language IS English, and the grasp is not good, I get a bit concerned.

We love pex, and from what I understand it can freeze but won't break- it has the ability to expand up to 3x in size which will accommodate the ice.  

Finding an RMLO is NOT easy that will sign off on proving the "ability to repay" but they're out there.

I'd look at the ability to ask questions and what kind of personal attention there may be.