I've got about 7k in an emergency savings account.I am in the process of getting several mortgage pre-approvals to compare fees and get an idea of how much home I can realistically afford.I have yet to find a buyer's agent/investor to help me identify potential homes but will start on that shortly.Ideally, I would like to buy a single family home.

In major cities I can get someone out for emergency service typically same day, even if I have to pay overtime for after hours work.

Often, a major or emergency repair is needed and the owner doesn't respond to fund the repair.

As a property manager, based on my conversations with our clients, below is a condensed version of what we hear most (in relation to PM in Chicago): "- Passing on the load so that you can be more present and attentive to your family (edit: and other responsibilities) and not be essentially working 24/7, on-call for the needs of tenants and property emergencies... can be worth the management fees.

With its booming housing market, the Phoenix real estate scene has emerged as a hot zone for fix-and-flip investors.

Successful flippers are:- Building relationships with reliable contractors- Ordering materials well in advance- Being strategic about which renovations will truly deliver ROI Regulatory EnvironmentRecent changes to Phoenix building codes have emphasized:- Stricter energy efficiency requirements- More rigorous inspection processes- Additional permits for certain types of renovationsBe prepared for longer permitting timelines than in years past.Financial ConsiderationsThe financing landscape has evolved significantly:- Hard money lenders are offering more competitive rates (7-9%) than the 12-14% seen in 2022- Several Phoenix-specific investment groups have emerged that pool resources for flips- Traditional lenders now offer more renovation loan products tailored specifically to the Arizona marketThe Bottom LineThe Phoenix market in 2025 offers solid opportunity for house flippers who approach projects strategically.

I also diversify into alternative real estate, like self-storage, to stay ahead of emerging trends.I’ve learned valuable lessons over the years, particularly the importance of clear communication and aligning expectations in partnerships.

Once you've done that for a couple years, you should have an emergency fund and the money for a downpayment.

Would it make sense to keep around $100K on my HELOC as a reserve for emergencies?

So, go with a good solution on the deadbolt.Screw a lockbox in a wall near the door for an emergency physical key.Find a locksmith that can rekey the doors between tenants - put ALL locks on the same key.Most electronic locks warn you when the battery is getting low.