There was an inspection contingency that stated repairs would need to be made or I would be credited, but after I got the inspection report and conventional mortgage loan estimate, I signed that this was satisfied. 

I am not saying to settle or be satisfied or even to slow down.  

You would be surprised what people will say even if they are satisfied with someone.

Legitimizing yourself is key because owners many times have either been burned by owner financing before or have had really amateur investors approach them with it so they will be extremely cautious about it. 

Market value are extremely low on most properties which will result in a huge spike in property taxes.

Honestly I would be satisfied with a duplex to start with as long as it meets the criteria mentioned above. 

I have a very satisfying and well paying career that takes up 80% of my time - the other 20% I'd like to supplement with real estate.

Joe Schmoe62 years old$4,300 a month gross incomePlans on retiring in 3 years, wants to downsize to a more affordable unit in preparation.All seems great to me so far, but upon running his information (I used "MyRental" for the credit/background check), found that he has an extremely limited credit history?

It's extremely rare that two applicants are equal.

Asking for a friend: I have an extremely obnoxious neighbor above me.