Even if one thinks market values will continue to increase over the next few years (I have my doubts), I would not invest in finishing a basement. 

Do you think the rising taxes might eventually become a bigger concern, or do you feel the benefits will continue to outweigh the costs? 

Make sure you’re buying in solid cities or neighborhoods that will continue to attract renters.

Being new to the area I have no clue where to start when it comes to finding a good builder, anyone have recommendations as I continue my research?

REMINDER: Even when you make a deal with a non paying tenant to always continue the legal process in tandem.

I am thinking since I want to continue my real estate journey if I should buy a duplex and just live in it and rent the other half out as opposed to buying a single family. can a single family home that you live in be considered an investment at all?

And if the fed rate continues to drop, so will the mortgage rate. 

Expecting to continue that type of investments and looking at everything real estate (notes, multifamily, cre, rentals, etc...) 

The affordability factor also suggests potential for significant appreciation as the tech sector continues to grow and demand increases.Market StabilizationThe slight cooling we're seeing in the market isn't a setback—it's an opportunity.

Brendan, the VA loan can be a powerful tool in your investing career especially as you continue to PCS around the country.