For instance, in my market, from FY 24 to FY25, the HUD rents increased by 11% (Worcester MA) signifying significant increases in demand vs. other areas where it may stay stagnant or lower which would signify the opposite.

There's so much content and so many individuals who push inexperienced investors to take action before they are financially ready while downplaying the risks, particularly those associated with  properties in lower tier neighborhoods.

Do you find that lower down makes it harder for a successful BRRR? 

I’ve been in a similar situation, and I think the idea of buying in lower-cost areas to renovate and rent out is a great play.

But I also sometimes think owning only 1 property in LA would be less stressful and a more reasonable mortgage payment would improve my quality of life.

Find a realtor that will submit the offers and lower your cost basis enough to where your returns get a bit of a bump. 

It’s also a much lower priced house than the couple I have now and I can afford to hold this and pay the mortgage with no occupancy. 

for some of us "regular folks", a tidbit of info here to lower the appetite if you are not in that class of investments:"Regulation D, Rule 506(c)" refers to a specific exemption under the U.S.

If it's not selling, you need to lower the price.

I'm looking to start off in areas with lower costs coming in, preferably under $100k single families but definitely under $200k.