I did not read the rules around security deposits. you may be allowed to use those funds and still file a small claims action for any remainder, but I can't imagine that it would be worth it if you have at least one month's rent in security deposit. 

Here are title cost numbers from my last deal in Lake Oswego ($625k sales price):Title agent fee: $1100Owner's title policy: $1425Recording fee: $350MERS: $25There may be transfer taxes depending on what county the property is in, as well.Chris

These two things can do worlds of good for a high net worth investor looking to maximize tax- deferred/tax-free growth and minimize general taxes from operations.

Main question in other countries is ownership and taxes.  

The state’s housing is also ranked as the fourth most affordable in the country.Alabama currently has the second-lowest average property tax rate in the country at 0.4%, which helps investors keep more of the money they earn.

Start small with one property, choose a strategic location, stay transparent with lenders, and ensure tax compliance.

Realtors often claim they're restricted to Realtor use, but that is incorrect. 

The low income versus high cost of living is referred to locally as the sunshine tax. https://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-places-to-liv...https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/sandiegocitycal...It is my view that the incomes cannot sustain the high cost of housing in San Diego but it has seemed this way to me for four decades and yet the RE prices keep increasing.  

@Kent Ford Be aware of the property taxes in Texas.

Most start by analyzing deals and forget the fundamentals of every business, like getting a Tax ID, bank account later, Business Credit cards, and lines of credit.