The two builders I suggest, are typically pretty great on their warranty.

If the seller didn't show for closing and you can cancel, then I would suggest requesting it be canceled and have him return your deposit.

They were one of the lenders Bigger Pockets suggested and everything seems great with them.  

Also, please no 100% commission based suggestions because that is not the aim of this post. 

Great thoughts and suggestions. 

Forming an LLC for your rental property can offer liability protection, but no real tax benefit.

The Midwest and the Sun Belt, in particular, continues to offer strong cash flow opportunities and stable, long-term appreciation, making it a smart alternative to high-cost coastal markets.One key factor in successful remote investing is strong property management—having a reliable team on the ground is essential to maintaining your investment and ensuring long-term success.

But, it may not offer the ROI as other locales, and it may not be "fun" like buying in a favorite vacation spot.2 - The highest ROI folks - Self explanatory, will go where ROI is high and/or regulation low.3 - The second home/retirement minded - These people are looking for minimal ROI but want the house in a specific location because they like to use the property and want it to pay for itself.

It felt reasonably if not underpriced to begin with and felt like I would lose an opportunity if I didn’t put in an offer for full asking price, they ended up being multiple offers the 1st day on the MLS, so I felt good about that decision.

Ended up getting an offer at asking, but the appraisal came in way lower than I expected.