I already make a living out of real estate and I'm not planning on ever leaving this space, I'm here to stay. 

However, purchasing the replacement property from an estate where your mother-in-law is the executor and other heirs are your wife's aunts and cousins raises potential related-party concerns under Section 1031(f).The IRS generally prohibits 1031 exchanges between related parties unless both the buyer and seller hold their respective properties for at least two years after the exchange.To stay compliant and avoid disqualification, ensure:The estate sells the property directly before any distributions to heirs.You hold the replacement property for at least two years.The transaction is conducted at fair market value with no prearranged agreements.Given the IRS scrutiny of related-party 1031 exchanges, consult a qualified CPA or 1031 exchange accommodator to structure the deal properly and avoid potential capital gains tax liabilities.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Staying ahead of the game by understanding how local regulations align with state bills like SB-9, SB-684, and SB-423 can open doors to exciting development projects.SB-9: Simplifying Lot Splits and Duplex BuildsSB-9 streamlines the process for lot splits and duplex construction, offering a straightforward way to increase property value and expand housing options.SB-684: More Flexibility for Smaller ProjectsFor urban lots under 5 acres, SB-684 makes it easier to pursue smaller housing developments, transforming overlooked properties and vacant lots into productive investments.SB-423: Faster Approvals, Fewer HeadachesNo one likes endless waiting.

I recommend staying away from companies that outsource bookkeeping overseas.

(aka the BRRR method).But, if you stay on the sidelines, acting fearful and not greedy, you will reap the benefits of neither.Again I do think we see an early pullback in 2025, in the first 100 days.

I'd recommend speaking with local specialists in your target market to look at multiple investment options side-to-side.Lastly, some of my clients have been encouraged to stay away from HELOCs unless they expect a lump sum (inheritance, sale of other asset, bonus, etc.) to pay off the HELOC in the next year or 2. 

Check out Furnished Finder, Airbnb and VRBO (30+ day stays) to get a good idea of what else is out there in the area of El Paso you are looking in.

Instead of 100% stock may be put 20% in real estate.As everyone correctly says Real estate is 4X leveraged return but you pay 5% per year to stay invested.

No brainer to stay there if I was looking in that area. 

So, even when the market is challenging, you can still see properties and stay current.Don't take a break when the rates are high.