If you were in my shoes as a first time investor, what would you do?

This would also allow you to move out eventually and keep the favorable loan terms then keep the property as a passive income asset.If you could find a value- add situation and are comfortable with renovations then you could also increase rents and equity simultaneously.

It made it super easy for us because he already knew exactly what pictures to take, how to make sellers feel comfortable (if he was going to an occupied home), things to look out for, etc.Unless a seller has grossly misrepresented the condition of the property, we very rarely have to renegotiate after we "inspect" the property.

@Justin Mays It will depend on your comfort level and where you're at financially if you're ready to buy land to flip.

Also, check the amenities available, that will run the HOA dues too.Location-wise, check whatever will be easier to rent in the long run.Also, depending on how you're comfortable with sharing your apartment, 2 bed could be a great house-hack.

I think some of it is that I have gotten comfortable with the 10,000 person towns on the coast that are so easy to quickly get to know that trying to get to know a big city like Reno is just a bit overwhelming.

It all comes down to your comfort and knowledge.  

Work with only people you like/feel comfortable with.

I could tell you that Ardmore is super safe but youre looking at $1M+ for a quadplex.If you need help getting in touch with a lender and seeing what you can get qualified for, don't hesitate to reach out.I would recommend NE Philly and Bucks county as they are very close proximity to princetonI would:First get preapproved and then start to target the areas I would be comfortable living in.You might have better luck with Duplexes in the philly area as there are more of them out there.

Would love to hear your thoughts or strategies if you were in my shoes.