There's always more than one way to skin a cat, my takeaway for @Zane Lyons is be sure (for any contractor/trade) you know how they plan on doing work, not just what they are doing.

I have analyzed a few properties based on tenant's requirements and available properties for sale in those region and they are a healthy investment.Just want to see if there are some BP members in this sector and what their experiences have been. 

I have had a tree fall on my electric line which was quite a big deal because it ripped the electric off the house and I had one fall on a tenants car, both were perfectly healthy trees.

I totally understand the value of "putting skin in the game" so to speak.

I start to suspect that lotion or natural skin oils can disolve the finish if you are barefoot a lot.

I work 55-60 hours a week and am looking for other ways to build a financially healthy life.I know I've got a lot of research to do here and podcasts to look into but, I'm hungry for knowledge and want to learn.

Private lenders in my experience want you to have skin in the game. 

That is what I am considering doing with additional funds until I can afford the next down payment.Again, kudos to you for saving that much, but I think you’ll be really hard pressed to find a property you want to own and then commit to a rental at the price point your savings can currently afford.An alternative I haven’t seen mentioned yet is partnering with someone-you can learn from a local investor you’ve networked with and have some skin in the game in a partnership.Good luck!

I have a great relationship with a local bank who will finance it and have a healthy budget for the project, so no problems there either.

Which is very healthy.