Now that I have skin in the game, I'm definitely feeling the policy decisions impact me more so than ever. 

I'd also suspect that as an owner-occupant, one might be able to skirt strict STR laws, and rent out a primary in an extremely in-demand market, especially in the near-term (think collecting huge fees seasonally around CU football games the next few years). 

Focusing on areas that will appreciate well is super important, as equity down the line becomes a huge game changer when growing your portfolio.

We do lots of JV and have found that the best relationships are where everybody has "skin" in the game.

What I mean by this is the entire game of REI has now vaulted into the top 10-20% of W2 folks, but really the top 5% mainly the top 1-3%.

Randy  Thank you for sharing such valuable information—utilizing RentecDirect.com for streamlined tenant management and having go-to vendors for efficiency sounds like a game-changer.

Rel estate investing is a long term game.

You can hire an agent just to show and be a body if they are willing, While its not perfect, ChatGPT is a great tool to ask initial questions and get a launching pad (always verify what it tells you)  - @Drew Sygit - Good point about getting someone to help you with screening if they dont have any "skin in the game" so to speak.

What follows will probably sound somewhat pessimistic - but I put it out there for your consideration...Understand that your journey will be a long one, as real estate is usually not a get rich quick game.  

Adam, I am vaguely interested in BRRRR to vacation rental in cottage country to play the long term appreciation game.