While they are probably a slightly better guest than Airbnb, I would much rather get Airbnb bookings because we hear from VRBO guests A LOT on simple questions.

DIY on a house with no equity may end up with black suits visiting your house, especially if seller is elderly or protected person. 

It's simple to do on your own.

@Shital Thakkar There is no simple number because all markets are different.

It will require some small set up but for a single unit self managing is possible and rather simple (even in CA) if you have the time for it.

@Mohamad Guene  Simple answer - you will be cash flow negative, and your appreciation will be limited.We did a new build once for a rental - it performed miserably cash flow wise despite a great location and property - we ended up selling it 3 years later.There are very few new builds in Huntsville proper - are you referring to an outlying area like New Market or Meridianville?

The S.O.T.A program works well, and is a good option to get a tough to rent vacancy filled if you invest in a low income area.The process of getting the deal done with them is pretty simple but pack your patience though if you get a bad case worker, you'll need it.

Simple as that.

As you write checks and make deposits your income tax return is preparing itself.At the end of the tax year print a simple Profit and Loss report for the time period and hand it to your bookkeeper or CPAYou still need to keep receipts for seven years or so but the works does itself as you write and code each check.Even if you file as an LLC, Partnership or corporation your CPA will thank you.

format=jpg&n... it's very simple actually, nobody should buy at the peak of the market....