Evaluate risk and minimize as best as possible..you can loose a lot more with the wrong tenant. 

Find someone who is working full time (perhaps one who works different hours than you do) to minimize the amount of time you are in the house at the same time. 

This strategy provides flexibility and can be used to control a property with minimal upfront costs.Before diving into any specific strategy, it's crucial to thoroughly research and understand the local market, regulations, and potential risks associated with each approach.

The minimal research I’ve done seems to point to building being cheaper than buying in my area.Does anyone have experience building these and could you share what to look out for, cost/sqft to build, etc Thanks! 

Even if not maximizing depreciation, the conservative estimates provided by DIY tools justify the cost for properties under $1.2 million.Addressing common concerns regarding the DIY option: Ease of Use: Most software for DIY cost segregation studies is user-friendly, requiring minimal input beyond property details.

Check all the CapEx components to the property and have a good contractor with you if possible.3) Schedule a cadence for communication and updates on the house, even if progress was minimal during any given week.4) Demand quality and coach your contractor.

I am self employed and try to minimize my W2 income. 

Fully gutted and rehabbed home with minimal budget by doing our own work, finding used and salvaged materials and appliances.

If you like the idea of a slow grow with minimal debt then keep on that track.

Because the claims (both number and the amounts paid out) is minimal and we have one of the highest costs for title insurance in the U.S.