Do you also have properties in the Smokies?

Buying your first rental can feel overwhelming, but once you get through the first one, everything gets easier.Here are a few ways to get started:House Hack with an FHA or VA Loan – If you’re open to living in the property, you can buy a duplex, triplex, or fourplex with as little as 3.5% down (FHA) or 0% down (VA if you qualify).

Purchase price: $114,800 This was my first home bought in 2018 purchased with a VA Loan.

Also, I’m in Texas. 

@Juan LagunasIf you're looking to connect with investors and investor-friendly agents in Houston, networking is key.

I'm based in DFW area but also have connections/interest in Notheast Texas.

You'll want to focus on securing a favorable financing deal at the refinance stage—ideally, you want to pull out as much of your initial investment as possible while keeping monthly payments manageable.A big consideration is understanding your after-repair value (ARV) and ensuring the rehab costs add value in proportion to that.

Just want to jump in here to reiterate what @Michael Smythe posted previously.

I would recommend joining local facebook groups of hosts (if they exist) for markets you are trying to get in to. 

I bought a property in October 2024, did a rehab from Nov-Dec 2024 and found a renter in beginning of Feb 2025.