Look to high-growth markets that stand to benefit from Bessent’s plans, especially areas tied to increased oil production or infrastructure expansion.

Contractors, unless you have a working relationship with them, normally do not want you bouncing ideas off them.Understand what their hourly rate is, have a discussion with them that you are okay with paying them an hourly rate if they walk the property with you and provide you a scope of work along with an explanation of what you can/can't get away with in regards to improvements.ask them if you go with them, if they can credit you the amount that you paid.Once you develop a working relationship with a few contractors, you can bounce ideas off them and expect quality responses.I do not invest in New York.Best of luck. 

Rental arbitrage isn’t common in my area ( high point North Carolina) but I was planning on starting in another state.

The first agent is absolutely certain the house will sell in the high 400’s.  

Some of the materials we choose and asked him to pick up (such as flooring) he replaced with low quality materials, I assume to keep more of our money for himself. 

These areas tend to attract high-quality tenants and provide consistent passive income, which is a great foundation for building your portfolio.If you’d like, I’d be happy to share some insights about these types of markets and why they’re appealing to investors.

Real estate investment can be incredibly rewarding, between the cashflow, appreciation, and tax benefits, it truly is the greatest wealth creation tool. 

I have liquid assets and want to make smart, scalable investments that balance cash flow, appreciation, and low risk.GoalsGenerate consistent cash flow to diversify my income.Maximize appreciation potential for long-term wealth growth.Invest in areas with low crime rates to minimize risk.Reduce my tax burden for 2024 with real estate purchases.My Current ThoughtsI’m torn between two main strategies:Multifamily Properties:Looking at markets like Austin, Raleigh, and Tampa for 10-50 unit multifamily properties.Love the scalability and centralized management, but I'm concerned about high upfront costs and competition.Section 8 Housing:Considering affordable markets like Memphis, Cleveland, or Indianapolis to purchase 5-10 single-family homes.I like the government-backed rent stability, but managing multiple properties across different locations seems intensive.Key QuestionsWhich strategy would you recommend for my goals and liquidity?

All the best, Steven  If you're going to do a partnership or even a joint venture agreement I would highly suggest using a competent lawyer to draft your business agreement.

If you aren't going to be living in CR full time as you try to execute the deal I do not think it is physically possible for you to obtain a loan from Scotia Bank and not worth your time to try because the rates are so high.