@Chris Grenzig  The chart on Wikipedia is interesting, its showing the population gains/losses from 2020 to 2023. 

If the search is correct you keep adding 3 months back and 1/2 mile out until you have them.The best value analyzer in my opinion is only accessible by realtors.

Quote from @Dylan Jeluso: This questions is the same question as getting your real estate license when doing flips, you have access to the MLS, you save money on the commission, and you have a little bit of a competitive advantage over the next person that is not licensed.

For holding vs. flipping, let your goals and market conditions guide you—flipping can build quick capital, but holding offers long-term gains.

A lot of people think that they will gain "experience" when they self manage.

If your property is up to par you won't really have many maintenance calls except minor stuff such as plumbing clogs which is more likely to happen and requests to turn the AC up or down which you can do on your phone but other than that pretty hands off.Vacancy depends on location and your Padsplit property score the more comfortable you make your property (mini fridges, tv's, outdoor area) the lower your vacancy rate but you can expect about 10% vacancy factor in a Padsplit friendly area (centrally located, easy access to public transportation).

However, if you need more flexible terms then look for a local mortgage broker who has access to a lot of companies offering HELOCs with most having more flexible terms than local credit unions. 

I thought all 30 year mortgages require only 12 months occupancy.It seems to be a lose-lose since the lender loses the interest on an otherwise good loan if it had to be sold, and they gain nothing.  

And any time a journalist or anyone else claims to know, the first question I have for them is: "If you say that you have access to this accurate crystal ball, then why aren't YOU a billionaire?!"

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