Lower property taxes, affordable housing compared to LA (CA buyers are usually cash buyers because what they net from their smaller home in CA can get them a bigger home here, often covered by what they net from their CA sale), allergies (smog), and politics. 

there are ways to get around the highest and you also need to take into account the savings you will generally have on the purchase side when compared to other regions. 

I just want to compare the real estate and stock market investment.

Firstly, it often generates higher rental income compared to long-term leases, particularly in desirable locations or during peak seasons.

The median home price in Milwaukee went up 8.2% in 2024 - and I had to do nothing but wait, compared to a 4 month major construction job.So yeah: BRR(hold) and maybe refinace at some point if/when rates get lower

**Maintenance**: Be prepared for a bit more wear and tear compared to market-rate rentals.

It’s a little more work to set up, but if you get a solid property manager, it’s not as scary as it sounds.If I were you, I’d keep digging into the Capitol region, NJ, and CT—compare the numbers, and maybe even start building connections with agents or wholesalers in those areas.

Properties are sitting on market for a bit longer now that supply is slowly creeping back up. 50 days isn't too terrible compared to the greater PHX area. 

- You or the PMC can get 3 bids, but who is going to know how to accurately compare them and understand if something is missing - that will require more work+charges once the project has started (a standard tactic by many contractors!)?

@Tom Rairdon If you’ve owned your short-term rental (STR) for over a year, it likely qualifies for long-term capital gains (LTCG) treatment, taxed at lower rates (0%-20%) compared to your 33% ordinary income bracket.