Also adding in here for anyone else viewing that we would need to consider the possibility of the IRS classifying this as a second home versus an investment property and disallowing any potential 1031 exchange due to allowing a family member to use the home rent-free.There are safe harbors to qualify for a 1031 exchange.

The only thing you can safely give them is a "gift" of merchandise not to exceed $50 in value.

.: Be on the look out for our new friend we met yesterday morning during our beach walk (PCB) 🦈 😯😯😯 Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water!

Take pictures of contractor's trucks you see driving around.

They tend to be more flexible than institutional lenders and may lend based on the equity in your property or its ARV, rather than focusing on your income or DTI.If you have any connections with investors or family/friends who are looking for safe investments, you might be able to pitch the project to them, offering them a higher interest rate than they would get in traditional investments.Advantages:More flexible terms.Negotiable interest rates and payback periods.Considerations:You’ll need to clearly outline the project’s profitability and how you will repay the loan, usually through a refinance or sale after rehab.

The shortage exists for lots of reasons, but a lot has to do with lack of trades folks to do the work, which drives costs up, which creates "unaffordable" housing. 

Driving for dollars" is another way to find properties. 

It's like comparing a wide, stable & safe pontoon, to a speedboat. 

Here are some areas in Texas and Florida that are currently attractive for real estate investment due to economic growth, population increase, and urban development:In Texas:Austin:Reason: It's a tech hub that continues to attract major companies like Tesla, Oracle, and Apple, driving demand for housing.Opportunities: Residential properties, multifamily units, and commercial real estate.Dallas-Fort Worth:Reason: This is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S., with a diversified economy and a strong job market.Opportunities: Multifamily developments, long-term rental properties, and flipping projects.Houston:Reason: Known for its oil industry, Houston has diversified its economy into technology, healthcare, and manufacturing.Opportunities: Commercial and industrial real estate investments, as well as residential projects.San Antonio:Reason: It's experiencing continuous infrastructure growth and is more affordable compared to Austin and Dallas.Opportunities: Affordable housing and expanding development projects.In Florida:Orlando:Reason: Orlando’s tourism industry continues to drive growth, alongside its rising status as a tech and medical hub.Opportunities: Short-term rental properties, multifamily developments, and new residential construction.Tampa Bay:Reason: Tampa is experiencing a population boom and is considered one of the best places for job growth in Florida.Opportunities: Waterfront properties, new housing developments, and commercial real estate.Miami:Reason: As an international business hub, Miami is attractive to both investors and high-net-worth individuals looking for luxury real estate.Opportunities: High-end residential and commercial properties, luxury condos, and fix & flip projects.Sarasota:Reason: Known for its beaches and quality of life, Sarasota attracts retirees and families, boosting its real estate market.Opportunities: Residential developments, vacation rentals, and waterfront properties.

And then, we go into an inflationary market and all of a sudden everyone is asking what to do..... if real estate is safe.....