Baltimore is huge and very differentiated inside of itself.

Bank financing is very tough for anyone starting out so HML is generally ( unless you use your own cash or cash in your network) the only funding there is.. the goal has to be though moving towards bank financing so you get the best deal possible.. right now I am at 1/2 point and 7% and my bank pays for my appraisals.

Hi BiggerPockets community,I’m new to real estate investing and currently running a remote operation to help connect investors with distressed homeowners and foreclosed properties across various markets.

Everyone will tell you it’s great to get started early, or you can just move after a year, but in the current environment in our region the rent your property will generate after you move out will likely be less than your mortgage, if you are tied to the area and feel confident you want to stay in whatever property you buy for 3-5 years go for it, if you want flexibility rent and throw that money into and index fund. 

Look into crime maps, and do the old fashioned thing of getting in a car and driving the market if it's not in your back yard.

My husband and I own our home in Pflugerville and are thinking of renting it out while we're in Portland.

Police described the event as "shocking" and "unheard of." so far.

You’re not using a PM, AND you’re assuming you can charge a service animal a deposit and pet rent?

But I purchased land in cash and leveraged it to build a new construction stick built home.

Thanks for your kind words and thoughtful insights.