What’s the Most Underrated Real Estate Strategy Right Now?
Most Popular Reply
Ryan RomingerBusiness Member
Real Estate Broker · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2018 · 340 posts · 144 votesI'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.
Intrigue Real Estate & Property Management4.6285 Reviews
22 Replies
- Investor · Get yourself trained before doing something inadvisable. · Member since 2024 · 3k+ posts · 1k+ votes1yBeing profitable.
Quote from @Amir Twig:
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?
- 1yRyan RomingerBusiness MemberReal Estate Broker · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2018 · 340 posts · 144 votes
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.
Intrigue Real Estate & Property Management4.6285 Reviews- Investor · Miami, FL · Member since 2023 · 91 posts · 28 votes1y
Quote from @Ryan Rominger:
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.
Totally agree, medium-term rentals are kinda underrated right now. I’ve been seeing more demand from travel nurses and folks relocating for work too. It’s that perfect in-between where you’re not turning it over every few days, but still getting higher returns than long-term. - Rental Property Investor · Manteno, IL · Member since 2009 · 2k+ posts · 2k+ votes1y
Quote from @Ryan Rominger:
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.
I've seen the mid term rental stuff. But I just don't see how that works well. You're guaranteeing yourself turnover every 6 months or so. And its a smaller renter pool so what if the property goes vacant for 2 or 3 months? I'm guessing you'd get a premium for being a mid term rental. But I don't see how you can charge a premium big enough to cover those gaps. Not to mention, you have to furnish the places too, I believe.
- Investor · Milwaukee - Mequon, WI · Member since 2010 · 5k+ posts · 7k+ votes1y
Quote from @Mike H.:
Quote from @Ryan Rominger:
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.
I've seen the mid term rental stuff. But I just don't see how that works well. You're guaranteeing yourself turnover every 6 months or so. And its a smaller renter pool so what if the property goes vacant for 2 or 3 months? I'm guessing you'd get a premium for being a mid term rental. But I don't see how you can charge a premium big enough to cover those gaps. Not to mention, you have to furnish the places too, I believe.
You can invest money, time or energy. And you can substitute one for another.
One of the young guys who does some work for me has a midterm rental. He is 24, single and super motivated. He maked a MTR work and the extra effort did not bother him.
He got the furniture mostly of FB marketplace for very little money. He wanted to buy in a very good area and otherwise he could not have made the numbers work.
He did a great job and the property became a launch pad for him. But I can't see anyone managing a portfolio of MTRs.. drive yourself nuts.
- Rental Property Investor · San Francisco Bay Area · Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes1y
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.
- Investor · Miami, FL · Member since 2023 · 91 posts · 28 votes1y
Quote from @Becca F.:
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.
I’ve been hearing more about people getting creative with ADUs lately, especially in CA. Makes total sense with the housing crunch and high prices. I hadn’t considered the angle of MTRs for people displaced by insurance claims, really smart.
Also, NNN leases are something I've been curious about but haven't fully explored yet. Definitely seems like a play for more seasoned investors, but I love the low-maintenance aspect of it.
Out of curiosity, have you personally tested both, or are you leaning more toward one over the other these days?
- 1yCorby GoadeBusiness MemberInvestor · Boise, ID · Member since 2014 · 3k+ posts · 3k+ votes
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.
- Investor · Miami, FL · Member since 2023 · 91 posts · 28 votes1y
Quote from @Corby Goade:
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.
Honestly, I agree. Real estate isn’t supposed to be flashy. It’s the slow, steady, build wealth over time type of game. The fundamentals haven’t changed, and trying to “hack” your way through it usually just ends up being a detour.
It really does come down to consistency, relationships, and putting in the work. Appreciate you calling that out, too many folks are chasing the next big thing when the proven path is right in front of them.
- 1yBradley BuxtonBusiness MemberReal Estate Agent · NV · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 713 votes
The long-term buy and hold. Real estate provides consistent returns and the ability to leverage appreciation with a tangible asset you have some control to increase the value. The faster people try to make money in real estate the higher risk. With higher interest rates there is an opportunity to get great deals on market properties because people that list need to sell for a reason. Nothing fancy, no tricks, loopholes or gurus. Just buy a property that will appreciate, hold on to it.
- Investor · Miami, FL · Member since 2023 · 91 posts · 28 votes1yLove that perspective, Bradley. Sometimes the simplest strategy really is the strongest, especially in a market that’s constantly shifting. Long-term buy and hold definitely feels like the tortoise that wins the race.
Quote from @Bradley Buxton:
The long-term buy and hold. Real estate provides consistent returns and the ability to leverage appreciation with a tangible asset you have some control to increase the value. The faster people try to make money in real estate the higher risk. With higher interest rates there is an opportunity to get great deals on market properties because people that list need to sell for a reason. Nothing fancy, no tricks, loopholes or gurus. Just buy a property that will appreciate, hold on to it.
- Investor · VA · Member since 2015 · 21k+ posts · 19k+ votes1y
Quote from @Amir Twig:
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?
we are not complaining in the non performing note space at the moment.
7e investments53 Reviews - 1yV.G JasonPro MemberInvestor · Member since 2022 · 3k+ posts · 3k+ votes
Buying deep, remaining patient and trusting the process.
- Member since 2018 · 113 posts · 135 votes1yThis
Quote from @V.G Jason:
Buying deep, remaining patient and trusting the process.
- Member since 2025 · 39 posts · 15 votes1y
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!
- Investor · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2024 · 7 posts · 4 votes1y
Quote from @Mike Rutherford:
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!
Amen! Live Local is a huge benefit that many developers in FL haven't scratched the surface on! I have 4 in process in Cape Coral and they are the only ones going in SW FL that I or the Florida Housing Coalition know about. It is the key to developing in this market!
- Member since 2025 · 39 posts · 15 votes1y
Quote from @Kyle Doyon:
Quote from @Mike Rutherford:
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!
Amen! Live Local is a huge benefit that many developers in FL haven't scratched the surface on! I have 4 in process in Cape Coral and they are the only ones going in SW FL that I or the Florida Housing Coalition know about. It is the key to developing in this market!
Georgia also has a few excellent grant programs under Governor Kemp. We have two applications in with One Georgia.
- 1yAustin WolffPro MemberRental Property Investor · Los Angeles, CA · Member since 2024 · 101 posts · 134 votes
Quote from @Amir Twig:
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?
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.
- Janesville WI · Member since 2019 · 55 posts · 36 votes1y
Co-living has been under the radar. It offers many ways to make money, from mid-term rental to short-term to long-term, and caters to many markets, from traveling professionals and vacationers to locals looking for affordable living.
- Real Estate Broker · Cleveland Dayton Cincinnati Toledo Columbus & Akron, OH · Member since 2013 · 30k+ posts · 20k+ votes1y
Quote from @Amir Twig:
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?
Working hard, saving money, investing said money.
- Investor · Milwaukee - Mequon, WI · Member since 2010 · 5k+ posts · 7k+ votes1y
The big theme in most markets (outside of FL and TX) is housing shortage, so any way you can bring inventory to the market is going to be rewarded.
But the ideal setup is a business (cash flow) combined with buy & hold (equity and tax shelter).
You can attempt to build a business within RE like flipping homes and then use the cash flow to invest, but think 10-20 flips per year and hire people, otherwise you are just the worker. There are many opportunities in 2025 that are easier to make money with. Figure out how an AI can generate cash flow etc
Join the conversationCreate a free account to reply, vote on answers and follow this thread.