I have done a flip about 3 hrs away which took a lot more time that I realized it would and I ended up spending more than I anticipated.

A few months ago, I realized that a good strategy for me to start out with would be to do "househacking" -- I'd save money that I'd otherwise be paying on rent, it would help me learn the ins and outs of managing tenants, and it would help me learn how to maintain and repair a property.

After browsing bigger pockets forums and listening to the podcast for the last few months I realize that my dream is quite closer to me than I previously assumed.

After browsing bigger pockets forums and listening to the podcast for the last few months I realize that my dream is quite closer to me than I previously assumed.

Somehow that grant money just got deposited into my checking account, and I confirmed with the grant folks that this was supposed to happen and OK and that I wasn't stealing or double dipping or anything (how it felt the first time a magical $7k that I didn't see coming appeared in my checking account).Just sharing that little bit of icing on the cake that you might not have realized was coming your way once you get into a 4 year. 

From the time I bought the house, held it, and sold it, I did not quite realize what a great opportunity I truly had in my hands.

In my enthusiasm I already got involved in a thread, and realize, I haven't properly introduced myself:I am a home owner, accidental landlord on my first home, which is under water, but not deterred.  

I just realized another follow up, and I am SURE this has been covered elsewhere, so if this is bad forum form, please let me know.  

I took a closer look at J Scott's tool and realized that the CoCR calculation IS including the rehab and closing costs; it just wasn't intuitive.

MarkPS -- We also got bit because we didn't realize the differences between AirBnB and VRBO on how they handle pricing.