Quote from @Joe Paasch: I have joined this site to gain important incites, discussions and plans to build a successful portfolio.  

As a property manager, I also require landlords place me on their policy as "additional insured" and it extends some protections over to me.

Additionally, it provides investors with the opportunity to add a unit on a property they already own, simplifying management since the new unit is in the same location.Finding a vacant lot is both expensive and difficult, so the ability to build, subdivide, and create new development opportunities can make financing easier.

You can contribute by finding deals or managing properties in exchange for a share of the profits.Lease Options: Control properties without owning them by renting with an option to buy, and potentially sublease for profit.Owner Financing: Buy properties directly from sellers willing to finance, bypassing traditional lenders and often requiring less upfront money.REIGs: Join real estate investment groups to pool funds with others for property investments.For a more hands-off approach, investing in turnkey properties in growing markets with minimal upfront investment would be ideal (like in the Southeast and Midwest of the country).

That said, here is how I would proceed...For some background, I used to run an STR management company in SATX and we peaked at about 35 properties under management. 

My basic underwriting making some standard assumptions on HOA expenses, 20% down, 7% interest rate, 30 year mortgage, utilities, supplies, and maintenance costs shows a loss of about $22k per year if you are self managing.

Now if you are seasoned and portfolio is mature and you are not as concern about maximizing income then I can see a migration to SFH might suit someone.  

If the repairs are manageable and you’re getting at least a 10-15% discount, it can be a great deal—but avoid properties with major structural failure or uncooperative sellers.

As you grow your portfolio, they can help you secure additional funding, refinance existing loans, and adapt to changing market conditions.Financing doesn’t have to be a roadblock to your real estate dreams.

With average rents in Charlotte hovering around $1,800 to $2,000, that means an average agent fee of just $190—if the management company even pays the showing fee.I understand that this may vary by market, but in mine, I don’t see agents being incentivized to work with renters.