Trail each purchase w a 10% downside stop loss limit order if you're not confident in the REIT, then continue your research on private real estate, and when you have the capital/team in place/knowledge of the local real estate market put it to work then, no rush. 

., and the Virginia Creeper Trail and the Appalachian Trail that both go through Damascus VA which is a short drive away.

That all sounds fine and dandy but from my experience with purchasing my first home, the bank wanted to a paper trail of where every single cent came from-- I did FHA 3.5%.

Rest assured if that happens you won't have to inquire about that one they stay pretty on top of that sort of thing. in our area even with an increase they tend to trail market rents at least double digits. 

Here's a mix of steps and strategies that might help steer you through these choppy waters:Documentation Is Your Best Friend: Make sure you've got a solid paper trail of all interactions, notices, and agreements related to rent payments.

I really like the areas of Huntsville and nearby such as:  Guntersville, Athens, Albertville, Muscle Shoals and want to purchase my next property in this region. 

People nowadays forget the power of a paper trail....a real paper trail, not apps/emails/texts and all that crap> If you ever end up in court (small claims etc) a Judge will love a real paper trail, they don't want to be waiting while you try and find something on your phone, y'know?

If you have a definitive trail of where the cash comes from it will aid in reducing red flags for laundering.

My property is on Green Rd. between Apache Trail and Sterling Rd.

Hi Bree,Best wishes as you ride the Tax Deed Trail!