Condos are their own niche so make sure your agent is experienced with buying/selling condos in your market3.

This will not only broaden my exposure to the market but also help me network with other investors and professionals as I work towards my long-term goals.My aim is to start buying properties for myself in 2026, as I’ll need some time to get my finances in order.I’m excited to be a part of this community and would greatly appreciate any advice, tips, or guidance you can share.

It also depends what you mean by experienced.

If all things are equal consider who responds most timely and do so with a professional tone, text, and/or email? 

Quote from @Emmanuel Rugamba: Hi everyone I am 26 year old professional athlete looking to buy his first home but also house hack in the process.

Working with an experienced project manager that had an established relationship with a contractor worked at then end for me. 

Keep in mind, though, if you just sell outright, you could be looking at capital gains and depreciation recapture, so it’s worth crunching the numbers with a proper tax professional (I’m not one, by the way).What do you think the rest of the community has seen happen to property values since last year, and do you believe it changes the 1031 conversation?

That could be market knowledge, ability to rehab a property - something that can give you an edge over other experienced RE professionals in the market and asset class you are working in. 

@Paola Astrid Find the local NARPM (national association of residential property managers) chapter's website and you'll find a list of each professional PM. 

Many experienced investors adapt by targeting deals with slightly higher percentages up to 75-80% while carefully analyzing potential risks and margins.