I’m finally ready to take the plunge into real estate investing, but with two kids, I’m nervous to use any of my own cash for the first project.

Having cameras during the rehab isn't bad but make sure your team is solid if you are nervous

It seems that 5 years ago or so, an investor could buy a turnkey rental and see it appreciate right away = investor felt they got a good deal.Today, prices aren't increasing as fast, or as much, so investors aren't seeing that almost immediate increase in the value of their turnkey purchase = they don't feel like they got a good deal.Throw in that it's taking over 30% longer to find a tenant today versus 2 years ago, and investors are even more nervous about their purchases.So, many investors are chasing higher value for their investments via trying to cut out the turnkey operator fees.

I have been doing plenty of research in short-term and mid-term rentals, but I am a little nervous with what I am seeing with a friend's situation.  

Let him or her find the loans you qualify for.50k in crypto would make me nervous. 

Of course I’m nervous that I’m pushing it too much and contributing to this insane market but at the same time I know it’s a long term play and once I can rent both units, the cash flow will be there along with all the other benefits of owning that you mentioned. 

Don't be nervous to call and ask questions, most people are happy to provide clarity so the process can go smoothly. 

However I am considering Philly because I am nervous about managing a rehab so far away. 

I've prepared an LOI and want to pull the trigger, but nervous.

I am also nervous about it not cash flowing at all but I think buying in southern California and holding long term is an almost certain strategy to build wealth.