A-rated neighborhoods will not be affordable nor cash flow well here at under 300k.

Or just go outside of the city to invest in Cabot, Conway, benton or Sherwood as well.

It’s inexpensive to provide but can make a big impact.Comfortable Bedding: Investing in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens improves the guest experience and leads to better reviews, which can boost occupancy rates.Smart TV or Streaming Services: Offering Netflix, Hulu, or similar services is a low-cost way to enhance guest entertainment and stay competitive.Fully Stocked Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances and utensils appeals to families and long-term guests, saving them money on dining out.Dedicated Workspace: If your property caters to remote workers, adding a small desk and ergonomic chair can set your listing apart.Outdoor Spaces: If your property allows, an outdoor seating area, fire pit, or hot tub can significantly increase your nightly rate and attract more bookings.Energy-Efficient Features: Guests appreciate eco-friendly options like LED lighting, smart thermostats, or solar panels, especially in eco-conscious markets.Keyless Entry: A smart lock is a relatively small investment but offers convenience and security, which many guests value.If you’re deciding on amenities to add, it’s always a good idea to research your local market.

Being a NYC resident (originally from Long Island), the price of entry in the area is on the higher end, so I've been considering some options in the NY Capitol region, as well as NJ and CT. 

I’m committed to keeping my options open and continuing to learn about being a landlord to ensure I’m well-prepared for my first purchase.To improve my ability to analyze deals, I’ve developed a two-part plan:Join a local BP meet-up group to discuss my goals and support others.Continue learning and engaging with the BP forum.Thank you again for your guidance—it’s truly appreciated!

Hi @Aaron Raffaelli, you've gotten good advice here as well as some good options.

Wells, Citi & Chase), but moving all your money for current rates might not be something an investor wants to do. 

do you add bathrooms and convert the garage to rooms as well?

That was my impression as well. 

Have a steady 9-5 job but looking to branch into real estate investing as well.