for giving me even more tools to guide me in the right direction as I continue this journey to educate myself about REI.

Don't hesitate to ask any of the many questions you have here on the forums, that's what this place is all about :)You can also try the search tool on the top right hand corner to look up topics you're interested in.

Its just not very popular here in Michigan.

You can look back 2 or 3 years as the popularity of an area usually won't drastically change but will over long periods. :)

I do own a townhouse as my primary residence and my wife and I are looking to purchase rental townhomes in popular neighborhoods near us.The issue I face is, my appiate for risk is pretty high and I want 1% rule, 50% rule properties.

Review some of the old podcasts, the ones that are of interest to you, go into the learn section and pick and choose; attend the NYC meet ups' , they are announced on these pages or use your "keyword" tool to keep informed.

Due to the era that we live in, with technology and the internet, you can run 90% of your business from home which means being able to use communication tools like the phone to communicate with sellers and email to exchange documents.The key is to know the deal and ask a lot of questions and let the seller talk.

Not storing boxes, files, and personal personal stuff, but power tools, hurricane panels for the duplex, extra lumber, lawn mower, ladders etc...are those "personal" items or items that helps maintain the property and thus not personal?

@Christopher Bowen Welcome to the single best real estate tool I have ever found.Gig Harbor may be hard to find good cap rates in but nearby places such as Tacoma offer some nice cash flowing multiplexes.

Yup, the MLS is the best tool (in my opinion) for doing a comp analysis...