Hoping" for me was never a strategy as the future is unpredictable.I hoped my $480,000 condo in Chicago would appreciate and it didn't move since 2018.My tenant a crypto exec has been paying me $3,000 in rent on the 28th of each month like clockwork for 5 years now.No capex, no issues at all and that has been a breeze.3% ROI isn't sexy enough to me tho 🤷‍♂️I'd probably be cheering right now if it moved up in value but it's been a dead deal in my eyes.But it is what it is.The numbers in a deal TODAY per se don't rely on hope and are a more predictable outcome.Granted, the numbers need to be "worked" and a more "hands on" approach is needed in such markets.Thanks Hi Engelo, you have been doing this for a long time and I know you have the skills and tenacity to manage high-cash-flow properties, but you have to admit, you are working hard for your cash flow, this is not passive at all.

Great if you want to add rentals or non owner occupied properties to your portfolio but not so great if you wanted that winter log home in big bear CA or Mammoth lakes, CA.The good news is you're from TN so you have no earned income tax from the state on wages only interest and dividends in certain cases so thats a pro right?

I remember early in my career, years back, a friend of mine closed his very first multifamily deal in a part of Chicago that, at the time, was just staritng to buzz with interest.

What Chicago City inspection report did your realtor find? 

Louis, and Chicago. 

A goal of 40 doors is theoretical and likely just matches the income that you want to get to that ranch, but managing 40 doors, especially when they are broken up into 15-20 properties is a bear for you or for property management fees (especially so if they are not all near each other).

Separate the work into 3 separate categories: 1) Those that are specifically related to the future STR usage, 2) Those that benefit you while living in the house and have zero bearing on the future STR, 3) those that benefit both you and the future STR....assign a percentage to the usage.Be specific and complete.

These minor tweaks won’t cost you much, and I’ve seen them help properties in Phoenix and Chicago stand out, even when the paint is a tad faded.So what’s your take - do you think guests these days actually prefer a hint of authenticity over a picture-perfect exterior?

It’s worth having a Plan B for unexpected shortfalls if you can, like setting aside reserves.From what I’ve seen, markets like San Diego, Chicago, or Austin also offer creative financing opportunities you can explore further.

Even accurate estimates don't bear out on a small sample size.