Attend real estate meetups and networking events in your area to connect with potential lenders and other investors.

That can be a draw back if the market is on a mad run up tho.Also, I would always have enough in a heloc to cover your 401k loan in the event of job loss or if you quit your job. 

As you suggest lowering down payment to buy more properties is one way, although the downside is greater risk in event of down cycle and more time to manage required.  

we are still doing deals in commercial but mostly in the retail/med space. 

We are the most productive STR in our area and bring a lot of revenue to the little town.

It takes a lot of time to build up a reputation in the wedding/event space.

During the peak season you have to make your money when the slow season is so much less.I do have events where the prices are expected to be high due to supply and demand.I do see some of the dynamic pricing days as being rediculous and your going to miss out on the early bookers looking for a fair price.

Do you plan to go to real estate networking events?

I guess sports tournaments or other festivals/events/weddings.   

Whether or not you believe there will be drastic changes, we are already seeing increasing weather events with unusual patterns like the hurricane that whipped through Central (Inland) Florida in 2024.