All this just to hopefully cashflow a few hundred $$ a month, doesn't seem worth it.Lately, I am really leaning on just investing in REIT's like Realty Income (o). as I write this Realty Income is at $57.75 paying $0.264 monthly dividend.  

When looking at discounting properties to find a deal, I tend to lean into what the seller is looking for when I know I'm holding. 

I'm really glad that I am taking my first steps, that I spoke with a real estate agent, and that I have the BiggerPockets community to lean on for support.Thank you,Richard  If they specifically tell you NOT to fly out and see the property you should run away. 

Slight Update: After speaking with more BP members, I’m increasingly leaning toward making my first purchase in New York—a 4-unit rental property where I’d be my own landlord.

Being local affords many conveniences based on access and your knowledge of the area.

Whatever that may be, lean into it.

It’s great that you’re pre-approved, but I’m curious why you’re leaning toward traditional lending instead of hard money, especially for a flip?

Sounds like there were some lean years but your persistence has paid off big time in terms of appreciation on both rents and home value.

I'm leaning with you in the thought that the seasonality is starting earlier.

For example, I am a little concerned about some aspects of the business cycle recovery and a potential for a double-dip so I lean toward the safest part of capital stack which is debt (or low-debt equity).