I personally think it's way too easy to escape debts in modern society, so I'm curious to know the mechanics of this particular situation.

Appreciation Investors: Investors focused on property appreciation might still find rent-controlled markets attractive, especially in high-demand urban areas where property values continue to rise despite rent regulations.

Make sure they are certified with the American Society of Cost Segregation Professionals (ASCSP).

I gaining traction in the Architecture portion of development for all three areas you mentioned however, typically on lots that are already established and/or infill development in urban landscapes.

We have one 2 RE attorneys on retainer here in Florida, very helpful with our litigious society!!

Just to give you some feedback Southern Maryland is a more suburban and rural area, which makes it different from the more urbanized parts of the state, like Moco, Baltimore or DC.

The kind of behavior you want to encourage in society.  

I just shy away from places without strong established tourism markets i.e. growing urban areas, national parks, beaches etc.

In highly touristy areas like lakes or vacation spots, an STR typically generates higher income from short stays but may not attract long-term tenants due to seasonal demand.However, if the property is in a more versatile location, such as near schools, businesses, or urban centers, it may work as an LTR, providing steady income and fewer management demands. 

Source: Boston Properties Rises to the OccasionSource: Major makeover planned for Reston Town Center's common areas — their first in 30-plus yearsSource: How Fannie Mae helped Boston Properties land Volkswagen's U.S. headquartersBoston Properties is not the only firm looking to massively develop the area, with the approval of Rivana at Innovation Station, which was approved last year for a 103 acre, 9 million square foot Urban Center, with first occupancy slated for 2027 right by the new Innovation Center Metro, just 4 miles from Reston Town Center.