Colorado Springs is a beautiful place to live and will continue to attract new residents from all over the country for decades to come! 

I do however, have full availability on my HELOC, various credit cards that are offering me 0% balance transfer checks for up to 12 months, and various retirement funds (Roth IRA, traditional 401k, etc.)I'm already a homeowner in SoCal, but I want to buy my first LTR SFR someplace like Cleveland since the price point is attractive.

The additional income from STR could justify the renovation costs, but it requires active management and market awareness.LTR or Break-Even Strategy: Renting long-term might simplify things, but if it only breaks even, you’re right to consider if appreciation is enough motivation to hold.DIY Basement: DIYing the basement could increase STR appeal without the full $50K outlay, especially if extra space attracts more bookings.

Definitely need pics of the back yard and info about local area such as schools, attractions etc.  

Until Fed begins to cut rates I’ve found alternative lenders in some cases to be competitive with banks on construction debt when considering the totality of factors (rate, leverage, depository relationships and pre- payment penalties).

If you’re aiming to attract higher-paying renters, consider going taller (10-12 ft) for flexibility with larger items or small vehicles—this may boost interest and rental rates.

Consider FHA loans, conventional loans, and alternative financing options.

Let me know if you have any questions for meWhat neighborhoods or zip codes in Columbus are best for appreciating SFR's that cash flow enough to pay for their own upkeep, and which attract solid tenants who stick around a good 5-7 years? 

I understand (mostly from this thread) they are generally higher fees and low(er) returns vs other 1031 alternatives.

.: There IS going to be a big impact on Real Estate, especially for Single Family and small Multi-Family that is Owner Occupied.The SALT Deductions are slated to expire at the end of 2025.Trump has already said that he will allow it to Expire:https://about.bgov.com/insights/elections/2025-tax-policy-cr...This is NOT a small change.The Standard Deduction gets reduced by about 40%.Then you get to deduct the SALT (State and Local Tax) that you paid PLUS up to $1 Million in Interest from your Mortgage against your Federal Tax Return.The only limiting factor will be AMT (Alternative Minimum Tax).In 2017 when this Cap was put into place, it made sense.However, now that the average Home sells for about Double what it was back in 2017, many normal Americans can benefit from the Expiration.I'm hoping that the Trump Administration does not extend the Cap.Too many people will love him more if he allows it to Expire!