I currently have a background in Semiconductor construction from starting as a detail engineering, working to be a construction manager, and now working as a Modular MEP construction consultant in the span of 5 years.

Great question - start the refi process now while you're working on getting it rented.

If you plan on living there, I would pick the place you want to live, then start investing.  

But when the interest rates started going up about the same time the fed start raising its rate, new construction came to a screeching halt.

Quote from @Cloey Green: I am finally choosing to start on my REI journey.

@Luke Fruge you are in the right place to get started for sure!

@Sean DillonAt 18, you're in a prime position to start building wealth with low expenses and plenty of time to scale.

If you're going to start in a market you're eventually going to live in, I think that's a stronger case for that market."

It also gets you into real estate sooner and lets you start gaining experience as a landlord.

It's no guarantee but it's a good place to start.