I've already renovated one of the bathrooms, and I’m planning to paint the interior, update the kitchen cabinets, possibly sand the wood floors, build a fence is a corner lot and increase the rent for the room since my tenant is currently renting the entire 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house for $800 a month.

.), Either a US credit report or credit trade line history in your country of origin, US Entity documents (EIN, Operating Agreement, Articles of Organization,), 2 months bank statements for proof of closing, and 6-12 months reserves on top of closing costs and DP. 

My wife Kathleen and I are looking to begin our investment journey where we plan to settle in Georgia.

I don't plan to ever move the property, and I want to keep it as a rental as long as possible.Thank you

Hey Danny - That's awesome that you've made your first investment and are planning more with your family!

The networking and local market insights are invaluable.For retirement planning, focus on building steady cash flow and consider setting aside a healthy maintenance fund (I usually recommend 6 months of expenses) to protect against any surprises.If you're looking to expand your portfolio, Columbus is a great market where we still see positive cash flowing deals with lots of appreciation potential.

The trade-off is losing out on potential growth from a reinvested 1031 exchange, but if you’re thinking about a HELOC later to invest again, this could bridge the gap.What I’d do in your shoes:If it were me, I’d run the numbers on a worst-case scenario for each option.

Congrats on a solid plan and good luck with the flip!

The plan is to build and then cash out refi.

You could also do a 1031 and trade up, could get into a nicer area