(zero claims or issues) We are looking at going with Obei Insurance, they focus specifically on investor real estate.

.- Automation helped us focus on the most valuable leads.- The system saved us both time and money, allowing us to close more deals.Anyone else tried this?

Investors aren’t avoiding the work, they’re just focusing on higher returns and leveraging their experience.That said, even the high-level investors we work with still BRRRR single-family homes, they’ve just added larger deals into the mix.

As for financing, focusing on saving while learning is smart, but also take time to research creative strategies.

Buy box: Location: Approx. 30 min drive to Boston Heights, for workNeighborhoods: Decent walkability score - not far from shops/restaurants/trendy neighborhoodsIdeal tenants: Close to hospitals/universities/schools for professionals/students/familiesBudget: $175-250K - Buying w/conventional loan, 5% down/ approx 20K reno.Property type: MFH 2-4 units - preferably side-by-side, with a yard we can fence for our dogUnits: 3+/1+ - better if 1.5/2 bath per unitTimeline: Plan to live there for 2 years, but possibly only 1 year if we find another investment opportunityGoal: Focus on appreciation - would like to see cash flow in year 2-3 (the year we move out), including overhead (Vacancies, Maintenance, Utilities) and budgeting in PM if eventually we don't manage ourselvesValue add: Opportunity for some forced appreciation, but not a full reno - cosmetic upgrades and updating kitchens/baths while we live in one unit.

Since you are on the Austin forum and stated you are from Texas, I would be happy to get on a phone call or have coffee with you to help you focus on the task ahead.However, let me remind you, I am neither a real estate agent, or lender.  

Those that cannot weather the storm get wiped out.Having cashflow positive properties provides a margin of safety you just do not have with negative cashflow.Why are you focused on buying in your backyard? 

To analyze deals efficiently, focus on key metrics like cash flow, cap rate, and expense ratios—make sure rental income covers mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance while hitting your 6% cap rate target.

High earners should also consider estate planning tools like trusts or Family Limited Partnerships (FLPs) to minimize future tax burdens.Given his income level and tax complexity, consulting a real estate-focused CPA is essential to maximizing deductions and optimizing tax efficiency.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

-Explore builder-financing programs, private lenders, or hard money lenders who may focus more on the deal itself rather than personal experience.If you can demonstrate successful project management and a solid business plan, funding will become easier over time.