@Oli CimetHouse hacking can be a smart strategy for real estate investing, especially in high-cost areas like the Bay Area.

Some of the upgrades you mentioned (specifically the smart tech stuff) only help for new home buyers (window shoppers).

If you click on the magnifying glass in the upper corner, this is literally asked monthly if not weekly.

I always think it's a good idea to try to keep tenants who pay on time and take care of the home so a smaller increase is a smart idea in my opinion.

It's also smart to get advice from an expert to check if your property is a good fit for central HVAC.

Aim for 15% of purchase price in yearly revenue6) if you don't purchase turn-key, come up with a furnishing plan7) get pro-photos, find a good cleaner, either via Turno or preferably by talking to locals8) a lot of youtube videos will overcomplicate the start (launch of 5 platforms, build a direct booking site, get the worlds best smart lock, automate all sorts of messages, connect to dynamic pricing, etc.)  

But sometimes I think we should have just taken the damn capital gains hit and just smartly invested whatever was left without looking back

Hey V.G - You are very smart to be focusing on the Carolinas due to the serious wealth migration that is upon us.

That rent would have easily covered the cost of hiring professionals, the job would be done better, and you would have saved yourself three years of blood, sweat, and tears to focus on your next investment.There is a time for learning and DIY, but you have to be smart about it.

It may or may not be smart, but it is definitely risky.