The problem has existed for decades but with population growth, it has gradually gotten worse.  

Investors often buy these properties with a plan to gradually upgrade units and increase rents, or even redevelop them down the line if zoning laws permit.

I simply just don't trust the news these days and have to look at my own markets and stats.I think the part everyone is conscious of is we saw a post-covid peak that in theory will not return, and we made a gradual return to 2019 levels.What I do think is true, per AirDNA, is that ocean and mountain markets saw the biggest increase, and now the biggest fall.... and now what's happening is many people, particularly older families who tried Airbnb for the first time, are realizing they never want to stay in a hotel again. 

Otherwise, you are gradually depleting your security deposit and you have nothing left when they move out.Capable PM software is complex, some of them you literally have to take classes.

Start with 1-4 Unit properties and gradually get into 5 plexes and beyond.

To scale your rental property portfolio, start by purchasing properties under your name to secure the best financing rates, then gradually transition them into LLCs for liability protection as your portfolio grows.

It should give a good return, over next 6-9 months with either a gradual FED rate cutting and a great return with a Recession. another option is AGNC/NLY. 2 mortgage Reits that own billions of agency MBS, so as rates fall, their underlying bond assets will rise in value dramatically causing stock their prices to rise, and they pay hefty dividends while you wait, AGNC paying me >14.4%if staying in cash consider USFR pays 5.4% taxable, or BKN 5.6% tax free as munisGO TEXANS!

I am looking to gradually start buildling my team again and would appreciate solid references  for the following specifically in the Cleveland, Ohio area :- Investor friendly real estate agent - small bank lenders/ private lenderes- inspectors- appraisers- contractors Thanks in advance, and happy hunting :)

Best thing you and your husband can do is to continue to increase your cash position, which will gradually open you to more and more potential investment opportunities, markets, and strategies.

Equity in properties is a roller coaster, you gradually increase your equity, before it is lost in a recession.