I can keep my single family rentals which, if I am being honest with myself, pay less than 5% cash on cash and require me to manage the property managers.

You may get better results by purchasing a duplex, triplex, or fourplex.Here's a guide that describes what good cash flow looks like and how to analyze a property.

I’m currently diving into the real estate world, focusing on finding off market deals and distressed properties as a bird dog.

I’d like to discuss it with a realtor, but I’m worried that if I disclose the deal, the realtor could bid against me on the property.

Day 1: Securing the Property & PlanningIf you’re getting ready to rehab a house, the first thing you need to do is lock it down and get your paperwork in order.🔹 Step 1: Secure the HouseBefore anything else, slap a lockbox on the door and get some keys made.

What are the best areas in Birmingham to flip properties?

Just to present an alternative point of view regarding California residents investing in STRs, I'd say the gambit still works and works well.For one thing, you still get to use the Section 263(a) tangible property regulations' de minimis rules, which probably mean you can immediately expense most of the furniture and fixtures in your STR.For another thing, while for your California return you won't be able to use bonus or accelerated depreciation for the personal property, you will still use shorter 5-year and 7-year lives for maybe 25% of the improvements.But the big thing: The federal tax bill is far, far bigger.

I am based in New Zealand and own 4 properties here, but keen to explore investing in the US. 

On the journey, I once sold properties that were 30 minutes away as being too far, and also managed some properties that were 200 miles away. 

Does anyone have experience with buying rental or STR property there or have a connection there that I could speak to?