I may not fully understand what drives the market and what to look for to stay ahead of the game, but I'm trying.. do you typically hold the property longer this time of the year?

There’s a few really good easy read books out there as to why Baltimore developed the way that it did starting over a 100 years ago which in many ways ways is still pervasive and has crippled the city even to today.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to stay focused and avoid some of these common pitfalls early on.Quick thoughts:Find the right Realtor – Make sure they’ve got some skin in the game with househacking or investment experience.Budget = Game Plan – That pre-approval is your marching orders.

The macroeconomics is rapidly growing - lots of job growth, population growth, and companies moving and developing out here like Intel, Google, Meta, Honda, etc.

We did just get a fusball table, so that will be added and we were debating turning garage into more of game room with ping pong table.  

You may find it useful to seek an unofficial preliminary meeting with the local powers-that-be to get a read on how much resistance there's likely to be with your development, as well as getting an early read on things they'll "suggest" to make necessary approvals more likely.

The rest of developed world was in various stages of disaster and incapable to truly compete. 

Knowing which part of the cycle you’re in helps tailor your approach: Expansion: Focus on long-term investments, high appreciation potential, and new developments.

Problem is theres slim to none investors that are going to allow you to get into a property with zero skin in the game. 

Unfortunately, it's a numbers game.