@Brian Jackson is doing repairs yourself the highest and best use of your time? 

Then, both needed about $5,000-$10,000 each in repairs and cleanup.Even with low rents in those areas, renters struggle to pay $995/month on one property and $1,095/month on another.

Trying to save $$ so I can prepare emergency funds in case of any major repairs etc .

From repairs and maintenance?

However if you didn’t calculate in at least some percentage of the rent for vacancy, repairs, and CapEx then eventually things will happen, such as a vacancy or a repair being needed and you will be out of pocket a much larger amount of money than just your $400.

As you look to scale, just make sure to hold/build reserves for when repairs come up and take your time screening tenants as you will find a vacant unit is much less stressful than dealing with a bad tenant.

It wasn’t easy—there were tons of repairs needed, from plumbing and electrical updates to cosmetic fixes like flooring and painting.

- What level of repairs are you willing to do?

→ A trusted handyman could handle repairs.📌 Accounting & Rent Collection?

Maintenance and potential repairs will also require a long-term financial plan and setting aside a contingency fund for such expenses.The steady cash flow, appreciation over time, and tax benefits can make a meaningful difference to your wealth in the long term, especially with the principal paydown on the mortgage.However, if managing the property from a distance feels too burdensome, or if you’d prefer the certainty and flexibility that comes with having less debt (especially given the high mortgage rates), selling and using the $100,000 in equity to reduce your loan for your next home may be the smarter move.