What’s the Most Underrated Real Estate Strategy Right Now?

Question

With the market constantly shifting, it seems like certain strategies fall in and out of favor. Some investors swear by creative financing, others are doubling down on small multifamily, and some are finding success in overlooked niches like land flipping or seller carrybacks.

What’s one real estate strategy you think more investors should be paying attention to right now?

Ryan Rominger · Answer

I'd say keep an eye on medium-term rentals. They hit that sweet spot between short-term turnovers and long-term leases, catering to professionals or those in transition for about 1-6 months. It’s been working well in several markets, but of course, it pays to know your local vibe before diving in.

V.G Jason · Answer

Buying deep, remaining patient and trusting the process.

Becca F. · Answer

I agree on the medium term rentals (MTRs). I know quite a few people doing MTRs in California to traveling business people, people displaced for insurance reasons (with all our wildfires as one example).

Depending on the market but it's more a California strategy, building an ADU (either attached to the main house or separate structure) and renting it out either long term or MTR or STR (AirBnb). Or conversely, the owner lives in the small ADU and rents out the main house - need to research local rental laws in CA but I would think in a more landlord friendly state and no rent control this could work well.

NNN leases but this is more of an experienced investor strategy where you rent commercial space to a tenant and they pay the property taxes, insurance and maintenance costs. There are also N and NN leases. Examples: fast food, coffee places, medical office buildings.  No residential RE hassles dealing with tenants and repairs but requires more capital (up to 35% down, according to CA investor I know doing this in the Midwest and South.

Austin Wolff · Answer

Depends on your market. In some places, land flipping (after entitlements) offers the shortest path to active income. In other markets, multifamily investing would be extremely wise.

Chris Seveney · Answer

we are not complaining in the non performing note space at the moment.

Corby Goade · Answer

I'm boring and I think real estate is boring too, but in a good way.

People have been investing in real estate since the beginning of civilization- there's nothing new out there, although there are some people who have done a great job of marketing old strategies to make them feel new. The same strategies that worked 40 years ago still work now.

If you are looking for tricks or shortcuts, you'll be disappointed. Taking action and reasonable risk, especially understanding that it's going to be really hard before it gets better, is the only way.

The strategy is irrelevant, but you can flip or BRRRR or wholesale in any market at any time, deals are always out there, you just have to work and network. Connect with other people in your market doing what you want to do and offer some sort of value.

Mike Rutherford · Answer

One strategy I believe more investors should pay attention to right now is leveraging state and federal housing programs to develop affordable multifamily properties. With rising construction costs and tighter lending standards, many investors overlook the financial advantages these programs offer—such as low-interest loans, tax credits, and grants.

In particular, initiatives like the Florida Live Local Act provide significant incentives for developers focused on workforce housing. By aligning your projects with these programs, you can reduce your capital requirements, secure favorable financing terms, and even access funding sources that aren’t available in traditional deals.

Additionally, small-town development is another underutilized strategy. Many secondary and tertiary markets across the Southeast offer affordable land, less competition, and municipalities eager to work with developers to address housing shortages. With the right approach, these markets can deliver strong cash flow and appreciation without the intense competition seen in major metros.

Curious to hear if others are exploring similar approaches—or if there are other "hidden gem" strategies flying under the radar!

What’s the Most Underrated Real Estate Strategy Right Now?

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