Quote from @Keith Groshans: My preferred investment in my SDIRA is mortgage notes.

Are you a hands-on type that can make improvements to a home or prefer to contract out work?

•Deal evaluation: Simple, actionable advice or tools to help me confidently analyze and structure deals.I’m also looking to network with wholesale-minded agents, understand local buyers’ preferences (buy boxes), and explore mentorship or partnership opportunities that can help me gain momentum.I’m eager to learn, take action, and build something impactful for my family.

While I haven’t chosen a specific niche yet, I’m leaning toward purchasing a multi-unit apartment where my 20-year-old son could live and help manage while we rent out the other units—essentially a form of house-hacking.So far, I’ve connected with a few real estate agents and gained MLS access, which has been a great starting point.

Great, niche market and definitely slower pace than Reno/Sparks.

Finding good STR's can be a niche market, so it's a good idea to find an agent that is familiar with STR so they can point you in the right direction for zoning, good markets, etc. 

First, banks do not prefer W2 income over 1099 income at all.

I haven't worked with anything but hardwood and tile in recent years but would prefer a cheaper, waterproof option if it looks decent. 

. • Podcasts: The BiggerPockets Commercial Real Estate Podcast has episodes on niche asset classes, including hotels. 

In some older neighborhoods especially historic districts, the tenants look for older houses - they preferred the art deco bathroom tiles, the thick plaster & lath walls over granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.but class D neighborhoods are easiest to tell.