At first, I splurged on all kinds of comforts and luxuries—things like high-end espresso machines and fancy decor that looked amazing in photos but ended up rarely being used.

(+1 sub)speaking of uncut gems. it's interesting that was the movie you were going to watch, given your situation. can't really compare RE to gsmbling, but the guy had heart and wouldn't give up for nothing. great job on persevering thru this storm! 

I have friends who bought in Texas, Chicago, Minnesota and Tennessee so I've been watching those markets. 

@Tristan Kelly tenant performance and damage is what you want to watch, along with squatters & theft of mechanicals.Update us in 6 months:)

I still watch them sometimes since every day, while eating lunch at work, I watch real estate-related videos on YouTube. 

Smart tech, such as fast Wi-Fi, streaming services, and keyless entry, consistently gets positive feedback, as do luxury bathroom additions like plush towels and rain showers.

As you read these books, watch the BiggerPockets podcasts.

On the RE side - I own/developed 2,000 residential units across the United States focusing on opportunistic residential acquisitions and development, including student housing conversions and luxury multifamily development.On the startup side - it is a third-party guarantor platform that expands your renter pool, increases rents and occupancy, and ultimately boosts your NOI while broadening affordable housing options for renters.

You have to watch out for properties that hit 1% or higher, but have cap ex and tenant issues.

Survive for a decade and watch your net worth grow tremendously.