I suspect low vacancy, decent screening, no bs with tenants, and luck have all played a role. 

subscribe for the trials to the software and play around. but also build your network. 

A motel is just the ultimate by-the-room play

I usually receive a large bonus from work in late June so July 2025 is my target date to buy my first piece of property, although I realize opportunities may arise before then. 

You of course need to strategically purchase the property to where it will meet your investment criteria when you depart, which is where a good agent comes into play. 

Investing in real estate is a long-term play so it has to fit into how you want to build your life.

Taylor just called to congratulate me on my first purchase and walk me through the next steps.I will update this post as the process plays out and my first rental property journey begins. 

If we did everything on the inspection reports, then the property would be worth more so we refuse to play that game.

Section 8 can be a very smart play, but it's not great for first-time investors who are not planning (and have the resources) to continue the play to understand and perfect the obligations and to ensure the best renters.

I am figuring out what I want to build next that will have the best equity play but still crush as a STR.