But I feel I see some people grow rather rapidly. wasn't sure if they were using some sort of other method to get ahead. 

Complexity in Management: Managing multiple properties as collateral can complicate financial situations, especially if one property is underperforming or requires significant repairs.3.

.🔴 Overly optimistic projections: Unrealistic ARV (after-repair value) or underestimated rehab costs can signal poor planning—or worse, a lack of transparency.🔴 Incomplete or disorganized documentation: Missing detailed plans, financial statements, or timelines could mean the borrower isn’t ready to execute the project successfully.🔴 Over-leveraged finances: Borrowers with excessive debt or insufficient personal capital invested in the deal could pose a greater risk of default.🔴 Questionable property comps: Overstated market values or inappropriate comparables may mean they’re inflating expectations.As always, thorough due diligence is your best protection.

Repairs and Maintenance are not cheap and shipping carpet/furniture/etc to Hawaii calls for huge price premium so I would be sure keep a reserve for replacements.  

Income Late fee Gross rent Expenses Advertising Cleaning Gardening/lawn mowing Insurance Interest on loan(s) property tax Legal expenses Pest control Property agent fees/commission Repairs and maintenance Water charges Electric Bill Total expenses Net rental income or (loss)

@Bliss Hu,At your age, you’re well ahead of the curve. $300,000 is more than enough to acquire your first property, even in New Jersey.

Ensure you have an emergency fund for vacancies or repairs and verify market trends to confirm the investment supports your long-term financial plan.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Our ground moves quite a bit and $150 is worth it to see if there is a 5K+ repair needed.

Just musing ahead 10 years or so.With states now mandating the phase out of Gas/Deisel cars  How are MF owners going to attract and keep tenants that will now have EV's in the next 10 to 20 years ? 

Double check so you are budgeting correctly.Last, I would generally NOT recommend you use your Heloc for your repairs.