The reasons cited for the market not following suit this time are concerns that increasing GDP, especially in Q4 of 2024, and policy changes such as tariffs could lead to a resurgence of inflation and thus a change in the Fed’s projections, with there being 150bps of variance between certain Fed members projections (Source).

I have access to a $500,000 HELOC but live in Fort Lauderdale, where property prices are high, and cash flow opportunities seem tough to find.I’m considering different strategies like:BRRRR or flips (but concerned about high acquisition costs)Out-of-state investing (but hesitant about managing from afar)House hacking (but not sure if it makes sense given my situation)For those who’ve started in high-cost markets, what strategies worked for you?

My biggest concern is just having boots on the ground in case something goes wrong.   

This would apply to your unit.Your biggest concern with setting the rent should be the near future. 1) Your insurance is guaranteed to go up, probably dramatically.  2) You may get an insurance assessment bill to cover the CA Fair Plan losses.

I’m just concerned of legality of basement unit and like you mentioned permitted status.

If the house has a septic system, especially if it's an older one, it's worth the investment to have a septic inspection done.This concern is particularly relevant for those planning to buy and hold the property rather than simply fix and sell it.

Now that I have answered your question, I'd like to share my questions and possible concerns. 

That would be my concern

.•30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate: 7.10%•15-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate: 7.35%•Fed Funds Rate: 5.25% - 5.50%•10-Year Treasury Yield: 4.45%•Housing Inventory: 632,000 active listings (33% with price reductions)With home affordability still a concern, any shift in rate expectations could have a major impact on both buyer demand and investor financing conditions.What Analysts Expect from This Week’s DataCPI Inflation Report (Tuesday, February 13)The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures changes in the cost of goods and services, serving as a key indicator of inflation.

I work in engagement marketing and deal with construction tradesmen all day, usually more custom type tradespersons with a lot of care and concern for their own work, which may glamorize it more than I realize.