One of my early properties barely broke even, but after a couple of years, rent hikes and expense optimization turned it into a strong performer.For cash flow benchmarks, I usually aim for $200-$300 per unit, but your situation.. house hacking.. offers unique benefits like reduced living expenses and quicker equity buildup.

We have the drive to achieve whatever we put our mind to, the skills to create a very unique and desirable space, and the finances to back up our investment.

This opportunity doesn’t occur frequently but it takes these attributes to take advantage when they do.3 - Blind luck - do enough deals, the unique opportunity tends to present itself.  

Hi Amanda,Lake County, CA is a unique place.

Over the past decade, the death rate has risen from 10.192 in 2014 to 11.119 in 2025. https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/ITA/ita...Italy is in a unique position, where all the youth are either leaving for college, or once they get their degree, they leave Italy to go take jobs in other EU countries. 

What’s interesting is that if you have a unique STR though, you can still be profitable and successful. 

Nothing new there, it's is not a uniquely CA thing, it's the US nation as a whole. 

I’d love to hear from fellow self-managing landlords about the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the way—whether it’s handling difficult move outs, maintenance strategies, or unique ways to streamline day-to-day operations.

I don't care about his cars - those are toys.

Simple touches like fresh paint, landscaping, and clean walkways can make a big difference.Highlight Key Features: During the appraisal, point out any high-quality materials or unique features you've added.