I think broader consumer taste is killing malls, which includes online shopping, but also even where people are choosing to live and how they are spending their time/money, more broadly.I worked for a company that bought a failing mall back in 2012 (online shopping was "killing retail" then too), redeveloped most of it into more open air power center and sold.  

Having a healthy fear going into any deal can keep your sense sharp to avoid potential pitfalls. 

It would not surprise me if they were acquiring the paper and servicing rights to take an inside line on refi's for these customers if rates decline.Actually CFPB regs may NOT apply if the subject loans are investment or commercial property loans and not SFR owner occupied or consumer loans. 

There are many reasons that adding a single ADU in southern CA is a less than ideal RE investment (i will post a list at the end) but the negative initial equity is a primary reason as the initial negative equity position consumes the initial cash flow and can take many years to recover.As for converting your home to a rental….

I've done my projects solo so far and it has worked out for me, however, it is time consuming and not in the position to invest all into one deal.

This negative position can consume years of cash flow to recover.

Costa Rica relays on Tourism and, you are absolutely right about the dilutions of hospitality in the world by Airbnb, however, the static still shows the preference of hotels by consumers when it comes to resorts due to all-inclusive options, comfort, and personalized care.

From what I read in The Economist, these Sun Belt regions often see steady population growth which can drive healthy rent appreciation.

We've averaged around 7% for mortgage rates for the past two years now…I think if we can see a settling somewhere in the 6% range, if not sub 6%, we will see nice consumer confidence not only for home values, but rent values as well.

Very time consuming of course.