It was recently purchased in December 2024, which aligns with the timing she mentioned on the phone.However, despite all the communication being professional, I’ve had trouble finding additional information about their business online.I’m wondering if I’m being overly cautious, but I want to make sure everything is legitimate and avoid any potential scams.

I specialize in STR & Co-living concepts, which I recommend for the highest rental income potential! 

Budget between 300K and 400K.Any areas that have the potential for a good cash flow?

I haven't thought as far ahead as looking at potential areas to buy property.

The formula that is sticking out as a potential to me is what I have been doing quietly the last 6 years: buying a cosmetic SFH fixer in B areas with 3% down, live in and renovate, long term rent and repeat.

No if potential buyer have given you emd than you are under the assumption this is a serious buyer and will close on the deal but he has only a certain amount of time with his inspection period so if he backs out you still have time to fund another buyer. 

If you are organized enough to forsee hang ups and talk with your GC about potential challenges on a regular basis, two brains are better than one.

@Michael Keffer Hi Mike, I am still interested in learning more about Ocala FL for potential future investment. 

This is how I see it:Single-Family Homes:Pros:Larger pool of potential tenants (families).Simpler management (one tenant, one lease).Often easier to finance.May appreciate faster in some markets.Cons:Only one income stream.Vacancy hits harder financially.Duplexes:Pros:Two potential income streams.Live in one unit and rent the other (house hacking!)

One time I had a guest smoke and it went right up the ducts into my unit, it was awful.I'm conscious about how that could potentially affect guests who will be staying in the upper unit in the future.