Using equity can be a smart way to expand your portfolio, but it doesn't have to mean over-leveraging or creating unnecessary risk.

I want to start smart and scale up as I learn the ropes, but I’m personally struggling to narrow down which area to focus on.If you’ve done this before, what advice would you give someone like me?

An attorney that practices real estate is a good choice, an attorney that invests in real estate is a better choice.

A client of mine in Maryland added smart home features to their rentals and boosted rents by 12% with minimal investment.

I incorporated smart home technology, such as automated lighting, heating, and security systems, which is highly desirable in today’s market.

Whatever you do, leverage smartly—DSCR loans can help you buy more without draining your cash, and depreciation will handle your tax burden for 2024.

You only get paid enough to continue.3) You don't need a dozen self-help books, all you need is action and self-discipline.4) YouTube University, podcasts, and the internet will only take you so far. 5) Book smarts make interesting conversation, street smarts make money.6) Find someone who is successful doing what you want to be doing and ask questions.

The real issue is that they didn’t have a plan to monitor usage or set up protections to minimize costs during the eviction process.Ideally, the PM could’ve done things like:Limit access to unnecessary areas to reduce power use.Install smart thermostats to keep heat at a safe minimum.Request a utility cap in court during eviction proceedings (if allowed in your area).Bottom line: It’s less about the utility switch itself and more about proactively managing costs once the tenant overstayed.bro what? 

Would a cash-out refinance to free up equity and keep growing be a smart move, or should I focus on paying down my existing debts?

Thank you in advance,Steven1) Yes LLC would be smart.