Lastly, don’t rush—focus on properties in good locations and with solid potential for both income and appreciation.

Hi Thu, congrats on going into escrow—exciting times ahead!

The court uploads its docket ussually days ahead of when the doc is recorded and uploaded to the clerk/recorders office.PAy attention to what they are charging once you go over your free limit for whatever account you pay for.

If travel isn’t an issue, you’re already ahead in being able to stay hands-on when needed!

By the time I had everything together, I always felt like I was rushing, and I’d inevitably forget something. 

You're already ahead by putting yourself out there.

You’ve already got a head start with hands on experience.. and you’re probably way more prepared than you think.That first property can feel both exhilarating and terrifying, so here’s what I’d focus on:Cash Flow & Analysis..

The rental market is already showing signs of recovery:Spring Is Coming: Historically, the rental market picks up momentum in the spring as tenants prepare to move during warmer months or ahead of the school year.Early 2025 Trends Are Positive: In just the first week of January, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in rental applications, suggesting pent-up demand from renters who delayed their searches in November and December.What Landlords Can Do NowTo make the most of this recovery, consider:Refreshing Your Listings: Update your photos, descriptions, and pricing to ensure your properties stand out.Offering Incentives: Temporary discounts or move-in bonuses can help fill vacancies quickly.Being Patient: The market is already bouncing back, so don’t panic if your property takes a bit longer to lease than usual.What’s been your experience?

What tools or strategies are you using to stay ahead of the game?

This requires consistent oversight and experience, which most investors simply don’t have.The Bottom LineIf you want to lose money and risk expensive legal fees, go ahead and self-manage.