I will be able to do my first purchase in Q4.My investment goals are to retire from my W2 in 6 years by the time I am 40, continue my location independence and split my time between the business and writing (it's hard to give up stories when you have worked with it since you were 19).

The economy is stable but there isn't as much growth for appreciation compared to some other markets that are going to be more appreciation focused. 

Also, concerns surrounding potential valuation corrections in this market had me thinking it was probably best to pull my capital and redeploy into a more 'stable' market/LTR. 

@John UnderwoodUnderstood, but do you think it should ever cross my mind in the future to dive into the STR realm so I can maximize tax-write offs (Passive losses offsetting active/earned income) from my Job later or just stick with the good, stable, LTR’s? 

Risk Mitigation: Highlight how you’ll mitigate risks, whether through market research, contractor selection, or conservative estimates.Philly B Class Areas:Since you're targeting B Class areas, which typically have stable rental demand but may need some renovations, a structure that combines monthly interest with a lump sum at the end may appeal to lenders.

A higher Cap Rate indicates a higher return for the investor, but it might also signal higher risk if the market or property isn’t stable.

The other option is to look for private money, or for friends and family or even if you have retirement savings, and having them self direct the funds and lend to you.You can also go and look for a partner that brings the capital and you bring the experience/sweat equityCongrats on the homeGino

Before you say 'you should have the money to get into a contract' I normally wouldn't be in this situation but I've just closed on a property that was all cash 2 weeks ago and a friend calls me on a property that's truly an amazing deal that I want to get into contract (has stable tenants renewing contracts above market, I can get for under market).

just like your retirement account - you buy 5 houses in a great area and don't look at them for years. 

One reason is that I am retiring from the military and my income will be changing significantly.