Wanted to still be close to family but maintain a cheaper lifestyle, still have strong appreciation, and much better tenant/landlord laws, taxes, etc. 

My wife and I own a single-family home in a top school district.

Other than the 1 property I am renting my family's taxes are pretty straight forward with a couple W-2 and no LLC, so when I got the $1,700+ quote for tax preparation it seemed a bit much.

Once you have family and get a bit older, house hacking gets difficult. 

We do want to settle in a little bit here while continuing to do our homework, but hope to get into something in the next 6-12 months.With the way interest rates are looking now and what little I see on public listings, I think a smaller multi-family that needs a little rehab would be the best bet. 

I bought a single family home for cash in November, did the renovations and now have tenants.

I personally like Alabama and Tennessee a lot, depending on what specific area you're looking at.Look for Class B or C properties in stable rental markets, particularly single-family homes or duplexes.

While I’m still in the early stages, I’m incredibly motivated to learn, grow, and surround myself with like-minded individuals who can help guide me along the way.What drew me to real estate is that I saw it as the best route for me and family to have financial freedom.

I have no reason to stay in Gilbert, other than it's where my family lives currently, so it's nice to be close. 

I have been listening to the podcasts for years and have finally gotten serious about making this move to better my families situation.