There may be more sophisticated programs (some that may offer analysis of each property, etc) but QB is fast, easy, and I can run several businesses and accounts with the program.

FHA mortgages makes qualifying slightly easier than other real estate loan programs, by crediting the buyer with up to 75% of rental income of the remaining unit as "income" providing the buyer with a investment rental home.

Rather than a certificate program, though, I think you are more likely to get a good analyst job with a full master's degree in real estate or, better yet, an MBA with a real estate focus.  

Plus, one of our competitive advantages is to connect with the people over the phone via our good customer service so I believe an automated program would lower our NOI.

I know the price of a home is dependent on the location but from watching some of the TV programs a typical 3/2 1500 sqft cost roughly $400k.

Has anyone used Sean Terry's wholesaling Hud Homes program & were you successful?

Are there any certifications that would benefit me, or Associations I should belong to to up my worth?

I agree with John, you should be good if its been 2 years since your discharge.I know people in a similar situation and some lenders have created programs to help finance people who went through bankruptcy only 6 months ago.

I picked up many properties that were thin to use in non-profit, low/moderate housing programs, they carried themselves, not much cash flow but that wasn't the mission, providing housing was the mission.

The 3% equity puts the loan at 97K, costs may be included depending on the program.