Does seasoning start when a renter moves into the property? 

I would never advise my customer to take a 5 YPPP considering we are have been moving into a downward trending rate market since 2024. 3 Year Prepay Max but if you plan on doing renovations or taking cash out on the ARV then a 1-2 YPPP would be Max.I would also advise buying the rate down before you decide to take a 5 YPPP using seller credit, equity or closing funds.

Educate yourself with books, podcasts, and market research, define your goals, and build a team of professionals to support your journey.

For example, say it were a 2bd/1ba property, I would just list it for 1 nurse to stay and I would hit my cash flow goal.

I lived in Houston for a dozen years (moved last summer) and really wanted to make an STR work, but I just couldn't get there.

Since you already have experience with both short-term and long-term rentals, house hacking a duplex could be a smart next move.

Move the money in and out as tenants move in and out.You need two accounts: checking and savings.

Off-market deals often require more work, but they offer greater potential profit if you know how to properly assess repair costs.Ignoring the Numbers – Always crunch the numbers before moving forward with a deal.

My ultimate goal is to become successful with my real estate investments so I don’t have to rely so much on my job and be able to spend more time at home with my soon to be wife and future children.

@Sam Ojo Sounds like you've made a lot of positive moves that have resulted in you having options at this point.