That's a huge achievement, and it sounds like you navigated some real challenges along the way.Your story reminds me of a project I took on years ago.

It is helpful to know that many HOA’s don’t allow STRs…I am also trying to source information about the STR regulations in this area to target the right small house.  

I aim to create a steady stream of passive income and achieve long-term financial stability.

What an achievement.

Are there any recommendations from anyone who have found certain news sites or data sources to extract data from that has helped them understand the current market landscape in their target area?

Welcome @Rebecca Morris,These are the 10 first steps I would recommend to get started in REI (real estate investing):1) Educate Yourself: Read books, take online courses, and attend seminars about real estate basics, market trends, and investment strategies.2) Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in real estate—whether it’s buying a home, investing in rental properties, or flipping houses.3) Choose Your Niche: Decide if you want to focus on residential, commercial, or industrial real estate, or perhaps a mix of these.4) Research the Market: Analyze your local real estate market.

Here’s our OPINION for the Metro Detroit market (use as a template for your target area!)

What price point would you be targeting on the purchase? 

Usually, you're comparing your 401k portfolio returns (which are usually in a default target date fund) vs SPY. 

Alibaba may look cheaper but ONLY if it's new build not retrofit.Cabinet pulls at Target designed by Frank Gehry, no wait those are out of stock and we needed 32 not 4.