Quote from @Sandeep K Mamidi: We have over the years bought and sold several rental properties in FL, AZ and TX (Pretty Passive)Want to become more active with Flips and grow our wealth using innovative strategies and expand into Multi Family Real EstateCongrats.

If you would rather not have this be a stressful process and want to scale the easier and simpler way stick to turnkey deals.

He hasn't been active for a while, but look at his page - https://www.biggerpockets.com/users/scottroyalsmith 

Some deals just "work" from day 1 and everything falls into place.Others don't work out no matter what you do.I've done hundreds of them in my local market and would only sell if it was one of those doozy type deals.Funny thing is, a property I own next door might be fine.But for whatever reason the cursed property just isn't lol.If you are wanting to use the equity, then use it to "Gung Ho" and full time.Meaning, don't buy turnkey and use the capital to buy, fix and flip instead.Money makes money and being very hands on and active, you can get to where you want to be quicker.Just my opinion.Thanks 

Additionally, my wife and I plan to retire in NC (still a few years out from that ; ) but we're actively planning and focusing our investment strategy in the Raleigh-Durham area.

Quote from @Marc Shin: why do some investors try to put their new STR's into service towards the end of the year when there is very little active income to offset? 

Be sure to track your activities.

Start small with manageable properties, mitigate risk with house hacking or partnerships, and stay active in the community.

I would also be aware of any state laws related to cryptocurrency that might be active in your market. 

The tahoe STR rental activity is down this year compared to the last 5.