Alternatively, should I focus on making minor upgrades to the rental property to increase the rent and continue holding it, considering the neighborhood’s growth potential?

As the success of PHX continues, Tucson will follow suit. 

I am preparing to attend their next meetup towards the end of the month and will continue looking for more ways to stay engaged.

As for the areas to target, my goal in getting our feet wet as real estate investors--and since we plan to be living in Sac--is to find a property we can live in while renting out one or more units to help cover our housing expenses, which we can then hold and continue to rent out when we move.

I have a job that also affords me a lot of spare time in my schedule and I'm looking to use that time to begin/continue/grow a real estate portfolio.

The Phoenix real estate market remains strong and is expected to continue growing in the coming years.This is what my research showed me about the market, but two things should be duly noted here.

Be ready for continuous learning and remember that networking is essential in this industry.

We are continuing to do regular flips and wholesale deals,  4 new builds this year.

How bad is this going to continue to hold back the CRE market?

Consider using DSCR loans- Cash flow of the property is considered in lieu of your income3.Consider purchasing in a different asset class (Large multifamily) where borrowing will be a function o fthe property income, not yours