It can help build some incredible relationships and really learn some great tips from the pros!

Get on a budget, build your emergency fund, pay off all debts, save up.

Your limiting factor is the amount of INCOME you can do this with and for HOW LONG you can do it. 

.• Use some equity from the sale to make this transition smoother.I’m torn between maintaining our current home as an asset and buying  a new smaller house to use as a rental after we move back in versus simplifying and focusing on a single upgraded property Considering factors like market trends, potential equity growth, and quality of life, which path do you think would be most beneficial?

The only rentals I'll consider is if I can do a build to rent.

Regardless of the type of lender you work with, building a trusting relationship is crucial.

If anything just buy motivating buyer lists or VA until you build your own buyers list.

Start by leveraging your skills to identify undervalued properties, perform cost-efficient renovations, and build sweat equity.

What further analysis should I be honing in on and key factors/metrics/info that may be providing inaccurate numbers?

Drilling a well or building out a septic?