Most sellers are going to want 20-25% down as it’s going to cost them 10% to sell.

It will cost you Time, Energy and Focus. 

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.

My first STR, and plan on splitting between self use and renting to help offset costs. 

Also you should inquire with insurance agents about the cost to insure.

I've done this on one house in order to cut costs - since then, I've added a meter with the utility company but it's a good workaround for the short term. 

It is a small town, definitely a tertiary market right now, but that is where opportunity is going to be found.I think LTR, in the right location, can provide enough revenue annually to cover all holding and leverage costs while the resident pays down the principle and the demand in the city sustains slow and steady appreciation. 

Hey @Matt Smith 👋🏽I agree that it's not worth renovating the basement - too costly.

I have had investors pull equity from their homes in the phoenix area to buy cash flowing properties in Fayetteville and similar areas, because the price growth in the phoenix area generates amazing returns.It depends on if you want cashflow now or delayed gratification later.Keep in mind that when you do sell, there are costs to selling and depreciation recapture  and IRS taxes, which eat up most of your "equity" growth. 

By year three, I aim to cover all operating costs and, by year four, to generate positive cash flow.Experienced investors say it’s crucial to persevere through the initial challenges while gradually building credibility through positive reviews, and I believe them.