So, generally, they'll talk to you with rose-tinted glasses and have you drink the cool aid.It doesn't mean you can't find a deal though.

A few things I’d suggest as a local investor:Know Your Markets: New England is a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas with very different dynamics.

Pensacola has a lot of potential, and I’ve seen investors do really well in the area with both long-term and short-term rentals.Since you’re just getting started, here are a few tips that might help:Know Your Market: Pensacola’s mix of military families, college students, and tourists means there’s a steady demand for rentals.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1122635-the-s...For 2024, it will be a mixed-use personal/vacation property on which no losses are allowed at all.

There's not a lot of markets where you get a great mix of both cash flow and appreciation but Columbus Ohio is one of them! 

Or am I mixing things here?

Our immediate plan is to get some STRs going and mix in some mid or ltr, and in the future a few other possibilities to bring in income. 

This in a neighborhood that is slowly appreciating, some renovated homes mixed in with older homes, but is street by street:Purchase price: $130,00001% rule: meets about 0.88% Down payment 20% and closing costs: $29,493Rate: 6.99% conventional 30 yearMonthly payment PITI: $1009 (was $859 until property taxes increased recently) Current rent $1200 (increased from $1150)Property management fee 10%: $120 (was $115) Net cash flow (if no repairs called in): $71 (was $176)Net rental income most months: $170 (first month rent), $935, $922, $1035 (full month rent minus PM fee) $567, $760, $307, $963, $1035 (full month ), $535, $925, $1035 (full month but now property taxes increased), $585.

Here are a few strategies to consider for funding a down payment:Partnering: Like Gregory mentioned, finding a partner who can contribute to the down payment in exchange for equity or a profit share is a solid option.HELOC or Cash-Out Refi: If you have equity in your home or another property, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or cash-out refinance can provide the funds you need.Private Money: Reach out to friends, family, or private investors who may be interested in lending you the down payment with a promissory note.Seller Second: In some cases, the seller might agree to finance a portion of the down payment as a second mortgage.Live Frugally and Save: It takes time, but reducing expenses and setting aside funds from your income is a tried-and-true method.The right approach depends on your situation and deal structure, but a mix of creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way.

@Brandon P.I use a mix of things and still struggling to find the best solution.All the solution requires to have a mechanical lockbox with backup key at location for lockout or contractor.