This is the reason homes are so much cheaper than cost to build.

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

I personally like to buy in towns/neighborhoods in which no new builds are possible within 10 miles because all the land is developed.

Be patient, take action when you're ready, and don't let fear hold you back—start small, learn as you go, and build momentum over time.Good luck!

Building a trusted team is key, so starting that process as you actively search for your market will put you in a strong position moving forward.

Speed of building a portfolio (Cash-on-Cash return is a factor here)?

You'll quickly learn how to manage investments well, which property types and neighborhoods work best, and more.

It's was so easy for me getting started to get shiny object sindrome instead of locking in ONE STRATEGY, ONE NEIGHBORHOOD, ONE PROPERTY TYPE, ONE RENOVATION TYPE, etc. 

Hoping for $325,000 for the build (budgeting for $400,000 with overages).

I have the option to buy a 1,300-sqft 3-bed, 1.5-bath house in South End neighborhood of Stamford, CT, from a family member before it goes on the market.