Since I'm just starting, I'd appreciate any insights on:-The best ways to build trust and credibility as a beginner.

Hi Jon,I'm getting into the rental arbitrage in the next few months, I hope, after 2 years of working on an owner of a SFH right next next to my Airbnb rental.

My clients can "force appreciate" the value of the property by doing a quality rehab for a lower than market cost because they are very good at spotting "diamonds in the rough".

As a new investor, I made the common mistake of being too aggressive, starting with seven distressed units all at once.

Update: I decided I will pay a $500-750 or so to do an initial hydro-jetting of the system. 

When they do, you can refinance to a lower rate.Dealing with current high interest rates (about 7% on 01/27/2025) you have the following choices:A larger down paymentAccept a negative cash flowBuy down the interest rateCombine and balance all three to get an acceptable cash flow today.

What guidance / cite do you have for only deducting some expenses until it's actively rented?

This forces you into an endless loop of Cancel - "Retain my benefits" What do I need to do to cancel this membership?

Nice situation where talking to a neighbor resulted in the purchase of a house! 

Quote from @Jon Earle: I just set up a SDIRA and am looking for advice and tips on opportunities to invest.